Each year on December 7, the United States observes National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, honoring the lives lost during the surprise military strike that brought the nation into World War II. On the morning of December 7, 1941, forces of the Empire of Japan launched a sudden attack on the U.S. Pacific Fleet stationed at Pearl Harbor, shattering peace in the Pacific and altering the course of global history.
The assault began just before 8:00 a.m., targeting naval vessels, airfields, and military installations. Battleships, including the USS Arizona, were struck with devastating force, and more than 2,400 Americans were killed. The attack united the nation, and the next day, President Franklin D. Roosevelt addressed Congress, calling December 7 “a date which will live in infamy.” Within hours, the United States formally entered the war.
National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day was established by a congressional resolution in 1994 and signed into law by President Bill Clinton. The day calls on Americans to honor the service members and civilians who perished, recognize the survivors, and reflect on the sacrifices made during the conflict. Flags across the country are flown at half-staff, and memorial events take place at sites such as the USS Arizona Memorial.
At Pearl Harbor itself, annual ceremonies bring together veterans, military leaders, families, and visitors from around the world. Stories of heroism, such as sailors rescuing shipmates under fire or pilots taking off amid flames, remain central to the day’s commemorations.
More than eight decades later, December 7 continues to serve as a moment of national unity, remembrance, and gratitude. It reminds Americans not only of the lives lost in 1941 but also of the resilience and resolve that carried the nation through one of its most challenging eras. National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day stands as a solemn tribute to the bravery of the men and women who faced unimaginable adversity and to the enduring importance of honoring their legacy.
Each year on December 7, the United States observes National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, honoring the lives lost during the surprise military strike that brought the nation into World War II. On the morning of December 7, 1941, forces of the Empire of Japan launched a sudden attack on the U.S. Pacific Fleet stationed at Pearl Harbor, shattering peace in the Pacific and altering the course of global history.
The assault began just before 8:00 a.m., targeting naval vessels, airfields, and military installations. Battleships, including the USS Arizona, were struck with devastating force, and more than 2,400 Americans were killed. The attack united the nation, and the next day, President Franklin D. Roosevelt addressed Congress, calling December 7 “a date which will live in infamy.” Within hours, the United States formally entered the war.
National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day was established by a congressional resolution in 1994 and signed into law by President Bill Clinton. The day calls on Americans to honor the service members and civilians who perished, recognize the survivors, and reflect on the sacrifices made during the conflict. Flags across the country are flown at half-staff, and memorial events take place at sites such as the USS Arizona Memorial.
At Pearl Harbor itself, annual ceremonies bring together veterans, military leaders, families, and visitors from around the world. Stories of heroism, such as sailors rescuing shipmates under fire or pilots taking off amid flames, remain central to the day’s commemorations.
More than eight decades later, December 7 continues to serve as a moment of national unity, remembrance, and gratitude. It reminds Americans not only of the lives lost in 1941 but also of the resilience and resolve that carried the nation through one of its most challenging eras. National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day stands as a solemn tribute to the bravery of the men and women who faced unimaginable adversity and to the enduring importance of honoring their legacy.