0755 DECEMBER 7, 1941
The attack yesterday on the Hawaiian Islands has caused severe damage to American naval and military forces. Very many American lives were lost. In addition American ships have been reported torpedoed on the high seas between San Francisco and Honolulu. Yesterday the Japanese Government also launched an attack against Malaya.
Last night Japanese forces attacked Hong Kong.
Last night Japanese forces attacked Guam.
Last night Japanese forces attacked the Philippine Islands.
Last night Japanese forces attacked Wake Island.
This morning the Japanese attacked Midway Island.
Japan has, therefore, undertaken a surprise offensive extending throughout the Pacific area. The facts of yesterday speak for themselves. The people of the United States have already formed their opinions and well understand the implications to the very life and safety of our nation.
As Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy I have directed that all measures be taken for our defense.
Always will we remember the character of the onslaught against us.
No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory.
I believe I interpret the will of the Congress and of the people when I assert that we will not only defend ourselves to the uttermost but will make very certain that this form of treachery shall never endanger us again.
Hostilities exist. There is no blinking at the fact that our people, our territory, and our interests are in grave danger.
With confidence in our armed forces-with the unbounded determination of our people-we will gain the inevitable triumph-so help us God.
7 Dec 41 KIA: 2,390
as of 7 Dec 05 KIA: 2,132
Honor all of those that have fallen...
they have all died for us.
posted by Mariuz at 11:41 AM
1 Comments:
don't know if you'll see this since i'm posting it so much later but...that day...has such an effect on everyone in hawaii for so many reasons...i have to say it still is talked about a lot back home...as it always should be...wasn't just the bombing that day, but everything from sending our hawaii japanese boys out first to fight Japan, to great grandparents or other family members being sent to prison camps. You should visit the Arizona sometime...I know you of all people would appreciate it. Very eerie feeling - no one can talk when they are there - there are just no words. I always thought our parents and great grandparents lived in such a different time - full of war and conflict. I never thought you and I would.
~c
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