Presentation by Oshkosh, WI historian Dick Campbell

The attack at Pearl Harbor is the single event most often associated with World War II.

For many Americans it symbolizes the evils that were victoriously overcome. But what actually happened 78 years ago on December 7, 1941? And what was the sequence of events that led to Japan’s brutal aggression? This presentation explores the historical relationship between Japan and the United States and details the beginning of our involvement in WWII. From the sinking of the battleship USS Arizona, to the creation of its unique floating monument at War’s end, this is a tribute to the men and women who served in the Pacific Theatre. It’s a salute to the bravery and courage epitomized on that historic day, and one we should always remember.

Dick Campbell is a 1954 graduate of Butler University in Indianapolis. Following graduation he served for three years active duty, from 1954 to 1957, with the US Air Force Strategic Air Command, as a pilot/officer, flying KC-97 in-flight air refueling aircraft with B-47s and B-52s. Following his military service his professional career was as a YMCA Director for 35 years, from 1958 to 1993, serving YMCAs in Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Racine, and then to the Oshkosh YMCA as its Executive Director for 22 years – retiring in 1993. He currently lives in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Dick is a long-time “student of history” story teller, with 13 different historic program presentations, which he calls “Great Moments in History.”