From Wikipedia: USS Arizona shown on December 7, 1941 during attack on Pearl Harbor by the Imperial Japanese Navy.

By: Jacqueline Bennett newsandviewsjb.com

Seventy-four years have passed since on this day in 1941 at 10:55 a.m., the United States was attacked by the Imperial Japanese Navy at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. The attack led President Franklin D. Roosevelt to ask Congress to declare war on Japan and brought the U.S. into World War II. Everyday life in the U.S. was changed putting Americans on constant alert. Individual families were affected. Not only the families of the more than 2,000 who died there but, as well, families of the young men and women who signed on for the fight. That includes my own family, as I have written about previously in a newsandviewsjb piece titled “Quiet Heroes From Connecticut’s Quiet Corner” .

There are many lessons to be drawn from history. None however, may be greater on this anniversary than what one editorial writer described as the “persistence of courage” of the American people. 

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DATELINE CT- In honor of the 74th anniversary of Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, Connecticut Governor Dannel Malloy has ordered flags to remain flying at half-staff until sunset today. The surprise attack on the U.S. Naval Base by the Empire of Japan on December 7, 1941 took some 2,400 lives, destroying battleships and aircraft in the Pacific region.

“On this day, we recognize the extraordinary sacrifices of all who served in Pearl Harbor nearly 75 years ago, in addition to the over 2,400 people – both military and civilians – who lost their lives, “Malloy stated in a press release.

The governor added, “This day of remembrance is also an opportunity to thank all of those who served our country during World War II, courageously responding to the call of duty. We are grateful to all who serve in our military to protect our freedoms and stand up for democracy”.

Following the Pearl Harbor attack, President Franklin D. Roosevelt addressed Congress describing the date as “a day that will live in infamy.” He went on to pledge “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.” Roosevelt’s steadfast words have been credited with “buoying the confidence” of the country in the belief that ultimately the U.S would be victorious.

Among the memorials built to those who died in the attack is one made of marble which stands above the sunken USS Arizona and was dedicated in 1962. Ceremonies are expected to be held across the country today, some to be attended by survivors of the attack.

Listen below to President Roosevelt’s Pearl Harbor address.