Dec. 7, 1941, is a day that will live in infamy. It was the day that the Japanese launched a surprise attack on the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. The attack resulted in the deaths of more than 2,400 Americans and brought the United States into World War II.
Today, Dec. 7, is a day to remember and honor those who gave their lives in the attack and those who served their country in the war. It is also a day to recognize the courage and resilience of the American people.
In his speech to Congress the day after the attack, President Franklin Roosevelt said, “Yesterday, December 7, 1941 — a date which will live in infamy — the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.”
At the time, no one could have imagined the magnitude of the attack or the impact it would have on the nation. But in the days and weeks that followed, the nation rose to the challenge and stepped up to defend itself and its allies.
Within days, the United States declared war on Japan and joined the Allied forces in the fight against the Axis powers. The nation mobilized its military forces and set its sights on victory.
The attack on Pearl Harbor changed the course of history. It brought the United States into a conflict that would define the 20th century and shape the world for generations to come.
But it also brought out the best in the American people. The courage, determination, and resilience of the nation was evident in the days and weeks following the attack.
Today, as we commemorate the attack on Pearl Harbor, let us remember the courage of those who served and the sacrifices they made for our freedom. Let us honor the resilience of the American people and the strength of our nation.
Let us also remember the words of President Roosevelt, “Yesterday, December 7, 1941 — a date which will live in infamy — the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.”
And let us never forget that the courage, determination, and resilience of the American people will always prevail in the face of adversity.