Pearl Harbor Remembrance Ceremony in Bangor Today

City and Military Officials will gather in Bangor today to honor and remember the victims of the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Today's event will begin at noon and will take place on the Willard Carlton Orr Bridge, named in honor of a Bangor resident who died at Pearl Harbor. The pedestrian bridge spans the Kenduskeag Stream, between Exchange and Broad Streets.

More than 2,400 Americans died and nearly 1,180 were injured when Japanese fighters bombed and sank 12 naval vessels and heavily damaged nine others in the 1941 attack. The surprise attack is what propelled the United States to join the fighting in World War II.

This year's ceremony will include an invocation and benediction provided by the Reverand Dick Johnson of St. James Episcopal Church in Old Town. The Bangor High School JROTC Honor Guard will display colors and provide a rifle salute.

Angel Matson, who is the granddaughter of a Pearl Harbor survivor from Bangor, will introduce Old Town resident Matt Dunlap, who will give brief remarks. And the Bangor High School band will offer a brief performance with former Bangor City Councilor Hal Wheeler, who will play 'Taps.'

A traditional wreath, donated by Piper Mountain Christmas Wreaths, will be dropped into the Kenduskeag Stream. Folks are encouraged to stop by and honor those who were a part of that momentous day, 74 years ago.