Seventy-nine years ago today, the United States was under attack. Japanese planes bombed Pearl Harbor in the morning hours to the nation’s shock and dismay.

It brought our country into World War II. At that time, we knew the enemy and where they were located.

Radio reports like this one from KDKA in Pittsburgh after the attack on that day had the attention of all the nation: “The War Department asks that all radio stations make the following announcement: The Secretary of War directs that all firms and manufacturing plants who have defense contracts or who are working on defense orders will at once institute proper measures against sabotage. Repeating that announcement: The Secretary of War directs that all firms and manufacturing plants who have defense contracts or who are working on defense orders will at once institute proper measures against sabotage.”

That event in Hawaii changed life for millions. Many went to war while others prayed in their homes.

Today’s society is a lot more complicated — even with the enhanced communication. Today, our world is battling a vicious virus. It has contributed to 1.5 million deaths from more than 60 million cases across the globe.

Here at home we are seeing the challenges as well. Outbreaks have worsened as the holiday nears and freedoms of traveling and eating out are appreciated, but not as enjoyable.

But our country’s lives changed greatly on Dec. 7, 1941 when Hawaii was attacked. We still struggle with the memories of Sept. 11, 2001, when our mainland was the target.

We must never forget Pearl Harbor. It was a pivotal moment in our country’s history. Today, for now, there is a different enemy in the coronavirus. It is taking a global effort to find a vaccine and a way to slow the spread. It dominates our media — and our thoughts.