Pearl Harbor Attack 1941 Remembered Today

Pearl Harbor -- On the morning of December 7, 1941, Japanese warplanes thundered over Hawaii, dropping bombs in an unprovoked act of war against the United States. The attack claimed the lives of more than 2,400 Americans. It nearly destroyed our Pacific Fleet, but it could not shake our resolve. On December 8, 1941, President Roosevelt and Congress declared war on Japan. While battleships smoldered in the harbor, patriots across the country enlisted in our Armed Forces, volunteering to take up the fight for freedom and security for which their brothers made the ultimate sacrifice.

On National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, we pay tribute to the souls lost 74 years ago, we salute those who responded with strength and courage in service of our Nation, and we renew our dedication to the ideals for which they so valiantly fought. Freedom was never taken for granted again. United States military build-up after Pearl Harbor through today, remains a top priority for Freedom.