Maine Sailor Discusses Pearl Harbor Divers And Salvage Teams [VIDEO]

75 years ago today, the United States was thrust into WWII with the attack on Pearl Harbor.  In this video, Navy diver Petty Officer 1st Class Melissa Nguyen-Alarcon of Winthrop, Maine, explains how Navy divers and salvage teams worked on salvaging destroyers, supply ships and other badly damaged vessels following the attacks, and how they have inspired her to this day.

In the hours, days and years following the attacks, Navy divers and salvage teams risked their lives. At first saving others, and then saving equipment, supplies and some of the ships and vessels.  As you can imagine, they were exposed to very hazardous conditions, including poisonous gas and un-exploded ordnance.

Melissa Nguyen-Alarcon is assigned to Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility.  Listen to hear narrative, and how what was done 75 years ago inspires her and others to this day.

The 75th commemoration of the attack on Pearl Harbor and Oahu is an opportunity for us as a nation to honor the toughness, accountability, integrity and initiative demonstrated by our Sailors on Dec. 7, 1941, which today's Sailors embody as well.