Significant days in our country’s past serve as constant reminders. The events of Pearl Harbor that happened during World War II are a pivotal moment in history that prompts most citizens to recognize how many people served the nation during this time.
However, memories tend to fade, and accounts change as time passes. Luckily, Americans across the country have a way of memorializing this day through ceremonies and traditions. With the recent passing of its 80th anniversary, here’s how we remember Pearl Harbor and all those lost during this unfortunate event.
In the early morning hours of December 7, a surprise aerial attack was carried out by enemy forces on the US naval base at Pearl Harbor on Oahu Island, Hawaii. Within the following two hours, 18 US warships were sunk or inoperable, and 188 aircraft were destroyed, leaving American forces defenseless.
These attacks led to 2,403 American service member casualties, with a total of 1,143 wounded.
While the direct impact of these bombings is displayed in its high number of fatalities and injuries, the attacks initiated a ripple effect across the nation. President Franklin D. Roosevelt believed that Pearl Harbor Day would live in infamy, as the national anger was at an all-time high.
The attacks placed the security and safety of the United States into question, with a national lockdown contributing to limited rations and travel.
On Pearl Harbor Day, the American flag flies at half-staff until sunset to display a tribute to those lost during the attacks. While it is not a federal holiday, National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day is the subject of many special events held by various organizations.
Venues like the USS Arizona host memorial services that provide keynote speeches, wreath-laying ceremonies, luncheons, and accounts of survivor recollections.
So, how do we continue to remember Pearl Harbor and the dark cloud that looms over this day? By reading, commemorating, having conversations about the tragic historical events, and educating others. While the exact number of survivors remains unclear, their stories will remain cemented in time for ages to come.
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