Litchfield, Connecticut – Dash Pereira, a 17-year-old history enthusiast with a deep appreciation for U.S. veterans, is set to deliver a powerful message of remembrance and hope at the 83rd Pearl Harbor Commemoration ceremonies on December 6, 2024, in Honolulu, Hawaii. Invited by Tom Leatherman, Superintendent of Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Dash will read a poem titled Cries of the USS Arizona, written by his father and inspired Dash during their visit to the USS Arizona Memorial a year prior.
The poem, Cries of the USS Arizona, speaks to both the tragedy of lost lives and the hope for a better future. The poem metaphorically reflects on the sorrow of the ship that “still weeps” as oil continues to seep from its submerged wreckage—more than 80 years after the tragic events of December 7, 1941. The poem, while contemplating the tragedy of that day, points to a hopeful future where peace may prevail. For a year marred by incessant news of global conflict, this poem ties the price of freedom, paid for by the lives lost at Pearl Harbor, to the peace we enjoy in our country today.
Dash's participation is a rare acknowledgment of his genuine reverence for the sacrifices made by the Greatest Generation. As a student at the Forman School in Litchfield, Connecticut—an independent college-preparatory school catering to students with learning differences such as ADHD and dyslexia—Dash has found a nurturing environment that fuels his passion for history. He attributes much of his inspiration to the school’s unique curriculum and the impactful conversations he shares with his teachers.
Over the years, Dash has also sought personal connections with WWII veterans, whose stories he has listened to with keen interest and respect. His efforts have been met with appreciation, particularly from older generations concerned that the legacy of their sacrifices might fade with time.
Dash’s upcoming recital is especially significant in a year dominated by unsettling news of conflicts across the globe. The poem, Cries of the USS Arizona, serves as a reflective reminder of the price of freedom and the importance of safeguarding peace. The USS Arizona, a hallowed site in American history, stands as both a symbol of profound loss and enduring hope.
Recent studies highlight a generational shift in attitudes toward the military and national history. Gen Z, comprising nearly 20% of the U.S. population, tends to have a less favorable view of military service compared to older generations. This shift is attributed to a variety of sociopolitical and cultural factors. Amidst this backdrop, Dash’s engagement with the past serves as a refreshing counter-narrative, symbolizing a renewed commitment to honoring courage, sacrifice, and love for the country.
The Pearl Harbor Commemoration, held annually at the USS Arizona Memorial, pays tribute to the 2,403 service members and civilians who lost their lives in the 1941 attack. It is also a platform to reflect on the broader implications of war and peace. This year, Dash’s reading adds a unique perspective, bridging generational divides and reminding audiences of the enduring relevance of these historical events.
A resident of East Grand Rapids, Michigan, Dash has become a prominent example of how younger generations can find meaning and inspiration in history. His involvement with the Pearl Harbor ceremonies underscores the importance of education, personal connection, and storytelling in preserving the legacy of those who came before.
Dash’s family has expressed pride in his accomplishments, emphasizing that his passion for history and commitment to honoring veterans are values they deeply admire. His father’s poem, born out of shared reflection during their visit to Pearl Harbor, encapsulates the profound impact the site had on both of them.
As the event approaches, Dash’s role in the commemoration promises to leave a lasting impression. By tying the sacrifices of the past to the aspirations of the future, his reading of Cries of the USS Arizona will not only honor those lost but also inspire new conversations about the enduring value of peace and remembrance.