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National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day

A solemn remembrance of a pivotal historical event that forged resilience and unity in the face of adversity, inspiring generations.

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Honor veterans and educate audiences on WWII history through commemorative content, ceremonies, and educational partnerships that drive awareness and respect.

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Share survivor stories and historical accounts to educate and inspire respect for WWII veterans
Promote local Pearl Harbor Remembrance Ceremonies and virtual events for nationwide participation
Create documentary-style content or film recommendations exploring the attack and its historical impact
Partner with veteran organizations and nonprofits to amplify remembrance messaging and support initiatives

History

The History of National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day is the history of the attack itself, an attack which took place on December 7th, 1941.

The attack was devastating, killing over 2,400 citizens of the United States from the time it began at 7:48am Hawaiian time and ended just 90 minutes later, making the attack incredibly devastating. Multiple ships were lost during the attack, though things could have been much worse.

Intelligence gathered after the attack indicated that there was intended to be a third-wave of attacks to hit the island, complete with an invasion fleet intended to take the island and prevent it from being used as an American base of operation.

The purpose behind this surprise attack? America was well positioned in the Pacific to interfere with Japanese fleet maneuvering, and it was hoped that by launching this assault they would cripple the US Pacific Presence and be able to control the ocean unhindered.As early as 1984, National Pearl Harbor Rembrance Day was officially declared by President Ronald Reagan. Then, in 1994, the United States Congress agreed jointly that this event would be celebrated each year going forward.

How to celebrate

Attend Pearl Harbor Remembrance Ceremonies

All over the US there are ceremonies to honor these men and women along with the rest of the surviving WWII veteran’s, of which there were 855,070 in 2016. Servicemen all over the world deserve the respect of their countrymen, and the war affected us all, so even if you aren’t American, pay your respects to those who serve. There are a number of different events that will take place throughout the United States, so you can find out whether there are any taking place in your local area. If there aren’t or you live in another part of the world, you can keep track of everything that is going on online.

Learn More About Pearl Harbor

You can also spend this day learning more about Pearl Harbor and the events that happened. Thanks to the Internet, it is easy to gain access to information on past events today. You will be able to learn about how the war started and what happened on this fatal date. You can also learn about specific accounts involving survivors, as well as those who lost their lives fighting for their country. There are lots of great books on the war, and of course, there’s the Pearl Harbor film too.

FAQ

Did any pets survive the Pearl Harbor attack?

Yes, a dog named Blackie survived the attack. Blackie belonged to the crew of the USS West Virginia, a battleship hit hard during the bombing. Blackie had been a loyal companion and mascot for the sailors, boosting morale during long days at sea. When the attack began, Blackie managed to escape the ship before it sank, safely reaching the harbor’s edge.

How did the attack influence American pop culture?

The attack on Pearl Harbor sparked a wave of patriotic creativity in American culture. The slogan “Remember Pearl Harbor” became a popular rallying cry, inspiring songs like Sammy Kaye’s “Remember Pearl Harbor” that climbed music charts in 1941. Hollywood also produced films to stoke patriotism and portray the attack, including 1943’s Air Force and December 7th: The Movie.

Is it true that radar detected the incoming Japanese planes?

Yes, radar operators on Oahu detected the incoming planes an hour before the attack. However, their warnings were ignored. The radar station at Opana Point picked up the large formation of aircraft, and operators reported it to their superiors. The officer in charge dismissed it, assuming the radar had picked up a group of U.S. B-17 bombers expected from California. This critical misjudgment highlights the role of human error in the attack’s success.

How do other countries commemorate Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day?

While the day is a primarily U.S. observance, several Allied nations remember it too. For instance, in the United Kingdom, World War II veterans hold gatherings to reflect on the global impact of the attack. In Japan, some organizations use the day to promote peace and reconciliation.

Did any Japanese soldiers question the attack’s morality?

Yes, some Japanese pilots later expressed remorse. For example, Mitsuo Fuchida, who led the first wave of the attack, reportedly felt guilt in his later years. After the war, Fuchida converted to Christianity and became a missionary, speaking about his experiences.

Were there any female casualties during the attack?

Yes, 68 civilians, including women and children, died in the attack. One notable story is that of Harriet Rugg, a Navy nurse stationed in Hawaii. She suffered injuries while aiding wounded sailors. Civilian deaths were often caused by anti-aircraft shells that exploded upon landing, killing bystanders in Honolulu and other nearby areas. These stories remind us that the attack affected not only military personnel but also everyday people.

Is there a connection between Pearl Harbor and the Titanic?

Yes, both disasters resulted in significant changes to protocols. After the Titanic sank in 1912, global maritime laws were updated to require enough lifeboats for all passengers and mandatory lifeboat drills. Similarly, the attack on Pearl Harbor led to major changes in U.S. military readiness, including the establishment of a 24/7 radar network and restructuring naval strategies to prioritize aircraft carriers over battleships.

Did any ships sunk at Pearl Harbor return to service?

Yes, several ships were salvaged and returned to service. The USS West Virginia, sunk during the attack, was raised, repaired, and rejoined the Pacific Fleet in 1944. Similarly, the USS California and USS Nevada were also restored and fought in key battles later in the war.

How did the attack affect Japanese Americans?

The attack led to widespread prejudice against Japanese Americans. Within months, over 120,000 were forcibly relocated to internment camps under Executive Order 9066. Families lost homes, businesses, and belongings. Many Japanese Americans still volunteered for military service, with the 442nd Infantry Regiment becoming one of the most decorated units in U.S. history. Decades later, the U.S. government apologized and offered reparations for these injustices.

Is it true that a Japanese pilot crash-landed and was captured?

Yes, pilot Kazuo Sakamaki crash-landed his midget submarine on Oahu during the attack. He survived and became the first Japanese prisoner of war held by the United States. Initially, Sakamaki requested to die rather than be captured, as the surrender was seen as dishonorable. His submarine was later recovered and displayed in war bond drives to boost American morale.