Tuesday (Dec. 7, 2021) marked the 80th anniversary of the Japanese attacks on Pearl Harbor. This surprise attack, which propelled the United States into World War II, killed some 2,400 Americans, wounded 1,700 and resulted in the United States losing nearly 20 ships and 300 airplanes. Half of the deaths were on board the USS Arizona, which has become one of our country’s most significant memorials.
This “date which will live in infamy,” was a terrible tragedy for our nation, but it also marks the onset of a period in which the citizens of our country came together as they’ve never come together before.
Newspapers from the time period talk about children searching for scrap metal to donate to help with the overseas effort. The attack on Pearl Harbor awakened “the sleeping giant” and a strong sense of duty. Everyone wanted to do everything they could to assist with the war effort and our family members and friends who are overseas.
Carlsbad is blessed to have several World War II veterans who remain dedicated citizens of our community. Many other Carlsbad residents are spending a portion of this week thinking about their family members who served in World War II. Over the summer, we were very honored to recognize several of our World War II veterans: Bill Davis, Don Miehls, Ed Dunagan, Frank Romero, Pat Mitchell, Bill Crabb, Bill Fuson and Willard Blair.
Thank you for helping us honor Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.
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Most of Eddy County and a large portion of West Texas were part of a hard freeze warning issued on Monday through early Tuesday morning. As the weather continues to get colder, please wrap outdoor water pipes or allow them to drip slowly. The temperature is expected to drop down again significantly by Friday night. We also have severe wind gusts predicted throughout the week.
As leaves continue to pile up throughout the week, please don’t forget that we have a great service to help you with yard waste. Our convenience station at 301 E. Plaza Street is now open seven days a week for residential use. You can also call our grappler service at 311 (from a landline) or (575) 887-1200 and we will come pick up your bagged leaves at the front of your house.
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COVID-19 update. There were 363 vaccinations given out at the weekly clinic held Monday at the civic center. Most of these were booster shots for Moderna or Pfizer. The City of Carlsbad and Eddy County will continue to partner with the New Mexico Department of Health to provide vaccinations from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Monday at the civic center.
Sincerely,
Carlsbad Mayor Dale Janway