A ceremony to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor will be held in Lehighton.

The Lehighton United Veterans Organization will meet at 12:48 p.m. Tuesday at the Lehighton Veterans Memorial Park.

Lehighton UVO Commander Kevin “Spike” Long explained why it’s so important that we never forget the historical significance of the attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941.

“Figure those fellows that were 18 and 19, they’re pushing 100 now,” Long said. “So many young people gave up all their tomorrows so we could have what we have today.”

Long said it’s of great importance to honor the sacrifices made by those who defended our nation.

“When our nation needed them, they answered the call, and here we are,” he said. “That’s what it’s all about; to honor and remember, and never forget those sacrifices.”

Long said it’s crucial to not let down our guard.

“In this time where people so much want to erase history, it’s so important to learn from it,” he said. “If we don’t learn from our history, it has a tendency to repeat itself.”

Long said the event will include opening remarks from Lehighton Mayor Clark Ritter, as well as remarks from Carbon County Director of Veterans Affairs Christine LeClair.

He said there will also be a wreath laying, dedication of services, moment of silence, and military honors at the end of the program.

Long said the main speaker is retired Capt. Neil C. Stubits, U.S. Navy Submarine Service.

A 1978 graduate of Lehighton Area High School, Stubits is a submarine warfare qualified officer and has been awarded the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal (four awards), the Navy Commendation Medal (two awards) and Navy Achievement Medal (two awards).