Sangamon Sun

December 7 is observed as Pearl Harbor Day, commemorating the surprise attack on the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, in 1941. President Franklin D. Roosevelt described it as “a date which will live in infamy.” The attack significantly influenced World War II and shaped global history.

On December 7, 1941, the Imperial Japanese Navy launched a surprise military strike against the United States. Over 350 Japanese aircraft attacked Pearl Harbor in two waves to neutralize the U.S. Pacific Fleet and prevent interference with Japan’s territorial expansion plans in Southeast Asia.

The attack resulted in over 2,400 American deaths and nearly 1,200 injuries. Eight battleships were damaged or destroyed, including the USS Arizona and USS Oklahoma. The USS Arizona Memorial stands today as a reminder of those lost during the attack.

Tensions between the United States and Japan had been rising due to Japan's expansionist policies in Asia and Pacific regions. In response to Japan's actions in China and French Indochina, the U.S. imposed economic sanctions that pressured Japan into seeking a military solution.

President Roosevelt addressed Congress following the attack, declaring December 7 “a date which will live in infamy.” Congress declared war on Japan, marking America's entry into World War II. Germany and Italy soon declared war on the U.S., drawing America into a global conflict.

Pearl Harbor unified Americans; many volunteered for military service while factories shifted to wartime production. The event marked America's transformation into a global superpower with significant industrial growth.

December 7 became a day of reflection and remembrance post-war. The USS Arizona Memorial draws millions annually to honor those who perished there. Ceremonies across the country remember Pearl Harbor survivors and educate future generations about its significance.

Illinois House Republicans have actively supported veterans this year through events like Rep. Ryan Spain’s Veterans Resources Fair in Princeton. These events aim to provide resources for veterans who have served their country.

“We had an incredible Veterans Resources Fair this past week,” said Rep. Spain. “Thank you to everyone who came out and made it such a wonderful experience."

Pearl Harbor Day reminds us of tragedy but also highlights unity and resilience that followed—a lesson relevant today as it was then.