May 30, 2001
This week's Bulletin was written by Elise Rogerson.
THIS WEEK'S MEETING
President-for-the-Day David Archambault (standing in for Colette Murray) called the meeting to order and asked Lou Scanlon to lead the group in the pledge. Peter Doody delivered an inspiring invocation based upon a traditional Irish prayer. He was followed by the group’s rousing rendition of "God Bless America” guided by Song Master Jim Mulvaney.
The usual contingent of guests from Club 33 were introduced, including Neil Schneider, who announced that he is seeking to hosts for 48 Rotary students who will visit San Diego from June 22-24th. Members interested in helping Neil out should call the Club 33 office.
Students of the Month
Mike Whitehurst and Hugh Largey introduced two student achievers from San Diego High School, who received the Rotary “Student of the Month” award while their proud teacher and classmates looked on.
Fines
Undeterred by the absence of our Sergeant at Arms, Melissa Blackburn stepped forward to pay her “Bragging Bucks”. She announced that her nephew had just graduated from a Police Academy program for high school seniors. Melissa appreciated Lou Scanlon’s participation in the graduation.
Dave Archambault lauded Joe Ciokon for being honored recently at a luncheon. Joe was singled out because of his outstanding work for veterans’ causes.
this week’s speaker
Next up to the podium was Joe Ciokon, who
introduced our speaker, Chief Petty Officer (ret.) Chet “Swish” Swisher, a
Pearl Harbor survivor who now volunteers his time at the Veteran’s Memorial
Center, where he is in charge of everything from restoration projects to the
installation of exhibits. On
December 7, 1941, Swish was a nineteen year old seaman assigned to a
ship on “Battleship Row” in Pearl Harbor.
Swish held us spellbound with his account of the beginning of the surprise attack. So shocking was the attack that it took several minutes for the participants to understand that the planes swooping overhead, with “big red meatballs” painted on their fuselages, were not part of a drill. That day, Swish and others lucky enough to escape injury participated in rescue efforts and collected the remains of their dead comrades, while under enemy attack. The Japanese carried out their attack with sophisticated, armor-piercing weapons designed to inflict maximum damage and injuries. Over 2000 men died in the attack.
Today, with the perspective of many years, Swish does not blame the Japanese troops for the attack. They were acting under orders from the Japanese military, which ruled the country.
Swish concluded by offering the following lessons offered by the attack: Be Prepared! Negotiate from Strength.
Thank you to Chet Swisher for serving his country with distinction and delivering his inspiring post-Memorial Day talk.
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