Remember the Pearl Harbor's

December 7th 1941, “A day that will live in infamy” as then President Roosevelt stated, when he declared war on the Japanese Empire, after their sneak attack on that fateful morning. Among the American causalities was George David Smart, of Polson, Montana. His remains still lie with hundreds of his shipmates in the hold of the legendary USS Arizona, at Pearl Harbor. There is a tribute display at the Miracle of America Museum, with rare family and Arizona memorabilia, to remind viewers that freedom is not free.

This display was recently enhanced by a gift from WW II Veteran, Ed Manning, formerly of Wild Horse Plains. Ed drove up from the state of Arizona to present a limited edition print (265) of the USS Arizona before the Dec. 7th attack.

In the photo Ed is presenting the framed print to Gil Mangels, founder of the Miracle of America Museum. Ed is wearing a cowboy hat originally placed on his head nearly 80 years ago by early silent film star, Tom Mix. As a boy, Ed gave exemplary service to customers at his dad’s gas station in California. To show his appreciation, Tom Mix, placed this hat on 8-year- old Ed. It is now also hung in the museum, in the Cowboy display. The museum is open daily. For more information call 406-883-6804 or see www.miracleofamericamuseum.org.

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