Pearl Harbor Day, December 7th, 1941

[Jand3rson]

Everyone take a moment today to remember those who served and those who died on this day 67 years ago.

[E30_Pare]

I do it every time I go there.

[OrganicMechanic]

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[Maluco]

I remember them at least once a month as one of a number of documentaries/shows on Pearl Harbor/WWII on the Military Channel/History remind me.

[SpecM]

thanks Josh, I forgot all about that

[Stephen]

:solemn

[Chisum]

To the Congress of the United States--FRANKLIN D. ROOSEVELT

Yesterday, Dec. 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.

The United States was at peace with that nation and, at the solicitation of Japan, was still in conversation with the government and its emperor looking toward the maintenance of peace in the Pacific.

Indeed, one hour after Japanese air squadrons had commenced bombing in Oahu, the Japanese ambassador to the United States and his colleagues delivered to the Secretary of State a formal reply to a recent American message. While this reply stated that it seemed useless to continue the existing diplomatic negotiations, it contained no threat or hint of war or armed attack.

It will be recorded that the distance of Hawaii from Japan makes it obvious that the attack was deliberately planned many days or even weeks ago. During the intervening time, the Japanese government has deliberately sought to deceive the United States by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace.

The attack yesterday on the Hawaiian islands has caused severe damage to American naval and military forces. Very many American lives have been lost. In addition, American ships have been reported torpedoed on the high seas between San Francisco and Honolulu.

Yesterday, the Japanese government also launched an attack against Malaya.

Last night, Japanese forces attacked Hong Kong.

Last night, Japanese forces attacked Guam.

Last night, Japanese forces attacked the Philippine Islands.

Last night, the Japanese attacked Wake Island.

This morning, the Japanese attacked Midway Island.

Japan has, therefore, undertaken a surprise offensive extending throughout the Pacific area. The facts of yesterday speak for themselves. The people of the United States have already formed their opinions and well understand the implications to the very life and safety of our nation.

As commander in chief of the Army and Navy, I have directed that all measures be taken for our defense.

Always will we remember the character of the onslaught against us.

No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory.

I believe I interpret the will of the Congress and of the people when I assert that we will not only defend ourselves to the uttermost, but will make very certain that this form of treachery shall never endanger us again.

Hostilities exist. There is no blinking at the fact that our people, our territory and our interests are in grave danger.

With confidence in our armed forces - with the unbounding determination of our people - we will gain the inevitable triumph - so help us God.

I ask that the Congress declare that since the unprovoked and dastardly attack by Japan on Sunday, Dec. 7, a state of war has existed between the United States and the Japanese empire.

[32.5i]

epic, epic speech..

[JasonC]

Alot of people forget about this day.

[Tree18is]

Word!

[Kruzen]

This thread needs more attention. imo. Bump.

[Maluco]

my father brought it up in Church yesterday actually...

[jflip2002]

Definitely an awesome speech. No reason this shouldnt get as much (if not MORE) attention than the 9/11 attacks. Just reading that speech, and remembering the videos on A&E and what not, gives you a strong feeling of nationalism... Nationalism, borderline hatred for other countries. Those were our people, and you dont do that to our people. Kinda gives you a renewed appreciation for this nation.

[CBi]

I have been to the Pearl Harbor Memorial on the island of Oahu.

It was as a VERY humbling and sobering experience. After the boat ride, EVERYONE is totally silent.

Many people lost their lives there. It's disheartening to look down at the murky, oil-slicked water and think of the young men who perished on that day. I think of the wives of soldiers, and the fathers of children who never came home to their loved ones.

I will say that I stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Japanese citizens at the memorial, and shared feelings of sadness.


I will never forget the day I visited Pearl Harbor. Every year that passes, on December 7th, I remember that day.

[jflip2002]

The waters are still murky there?