National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day

National Pearl Harbor Day of Remembrance is observed annually in the United States on December 7. This date commemorates the 1941 Japanese attack on the U.S. Navy base at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii, a pivotal event that brought America into World War II.

History

On the morning of December 7, 1941—a Sunday—Japan launched a surprise aerial and naval assault on Pearl Harbor. Despite intercepting Japanese communications, U.S. forces did not anticipate an attack on Hawaii. In roughly two hours, Japanese bombers and torpedo planes sank or damaged eight battleships, destroyed nearly 200 aircraft, and killed over 2,400 American servicemen and civilians. On December 8, President Franklin D. Roosevelt addressed Congress, calling December 7 “a date which will live in infamy,” and the United States declared war on Japan.

Interesting facts

• Japan chose Sunday when many personnel were off duty, hoping to catch the base unprepared.
• The striking force traveled over 3,500 miles from Japanese waters without detection.
• The attack spanned about two hours, from 7:48 a.m. to 9:48 a.m. Hawaiian time.
• The following day, the United States formally entered World War II on both the Pacific and European fronts.

How to take part

• Watch archival footage or documentaries on the attack to understand its impact.
• Attend or organize a local memorial service to honor the fallen.
• Share stories of survivors and veterans to keep their memories alive.

When is National Pearl Harbor Day of Remembrance in 2025?

National Pearl Harbor Day of Remembrance is observed on December 7 each year.

Observations