On Dec. 7, 1941, exactly 69 years ago, the United States naval base Pearl Harbor was attacked by Japan.
Activities are being held across the country to commemorate this event, including in Hawaii where it took place (scroll down for updates).
More than 2,400 Americans were killed in the attack (listed here) and the act prompted the United States' entry into World War II.
Before Pearl Harbor, many Americans preferred to stay out of WWII. AOL News notes that when Germany invaded Poland on Sept. 1, 1939, most Americans "fell in line with the policy of isolationism American leaders had implemented in varying degrees since the concept was first described by Thomas Paine in his 1776 pamphlet 'Common Sense.'"
Nearly 70 years ago, on December 7, 1941, our service members and civilians awoke on a quiet Sunday to a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor by Japanese forces. Employing whatever weapons were at hand, those who defended Hawaii that fateful morning stand as examples of the selfless heroism that has always characterized the Armed Forces of the United States. More than 3,500 Americans were killed or wounded, and the images of burning battleships and the grief for lives lost were forever seared into our national memory.
The deadly attack on Pearl Harbor did not accomplish its mission of breaking the American spirit. Instead, it reinforced our resolve. Americans responded with unity and courage to a tragedy that President Franklin D. Roosevelt called "a date which will live in infamy."
In the aftermath of Pearl Harbor, thousands of resolute individuals immediately volunteered their service to a grieving Nation. Sixteen million of America's sons and daughters served during World War II, and more than 400,000 paid the ultimate sacrifice in defense of life and liberty.
Countless other patriots served on the home front, aiding the war effort by working in manufacturing plants, participating in rationing programs, or planting Victory gardens. In the face of great loss, America once again showed the resilience and strength that have always characterized our great country.
The Allied Forces battled the scourge of tyranny and ultimately spread the transformative march of freedom. As we recognize the 65th anniversary of the end of World War II this year, we honor not only those who gave their lives that December day, but also all those in uniform who traveled to distant theaters of war to halt the progression of totalitarianism and hate.
In honor of all who have borne the cost of battle throughout America's history, let us pledge to meet our debt of honor and uphold the ideals they fought to preserve. The Congress, by Public Law 103-308, as amended, has designated December 7 of each year as "National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day."
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