It was December 7th, 1941 in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. The people of Pearl Harbor began their Sunday as they did any other Sunday. They never thought that they would have to protect themselves from what was about to happen. But then, at 7:55 am, the Japanese began their coordinated attack on the United States.
The Japanese’s surprise attack on the US was a staged and timed event. The Japanese picked a day to begin this war with the United States on a Sunday, a day they knew the country would be unprepared and weak. Their bombings and shootings brought terror to the country that day. This attack on the United States resulted in the US declaring war on Japan.
This event is now marked as a pivotal moment in United States history. How the United States responded to this unexpected event would determine our place in World War II.
Now, 82 years later, we spend December 7th remembering those who died fighting for our country during the war. More than 2,300 American citizens and soldiers died in the attack. Survivors of the attack on Pearl Harbor often share their stories with others during this day of service and remembrance.
We also spend this day tributing and honoring our country. Flags around the country are flown at half-staff until sunset to honor and mourn the lives of those who passed away during the attack.
Pearl Harbor Day was a horrifying and painful day for the United States, those who died, and those who suffered from loss, but it is a very important day of service and remembrance for our country.
