During an event honoring veterans and their families at the White House, President Joe Biden reflected on the lasting impact of the Pearl Harbor attack, calling it a moment that “changed the future of the world.” Speaking just before the 83rd anniversary of the attack, Biden highlighted the historic significance of that day and drew parallels to decisions facing the United States today.
Recalling his childhood, Biden said he grew up hearing stories about Pearl Harbor and the aftermath of the attack, which prompted many to join the military during World War II. “During World War II, we met at a turning point,” he said. “We are at a turning point again. The decisions we make in the next four or five years will determine the course of our future for decades to come. What we owe the next generation is to ensure a freer, safer and more just world.”
The attack on Pearl Harbor, which occurred on December 7, 1941, was a devastating surprise offensive by Japan against the United States naval base on Oahu, Hawaii. Early that Sunday morning, Japanese planes launched a barrage of bombs, torpedoes and missiles at the U.S. Pacific Fleet stationed there. The attack resulted in the deaths of more than 2,400 Americans, including sailors, soldiers and civilians. Nearly half of the casualties occurred aboard the USS Arizonawhich remains one of the most touching symbols of the tragedy.
The Japanese also caused significant damage to four other battleships and other warships. The assault was meticulously planned and executed, incorporating technological advances and tactics that caught U.S. defenses unprepared. The Naval History and Heritage Command describes the attack as a stark reminder of the dangers of underestimating an adversary. “The inadequacy of U.S. anti-aircraft defenses at the time, combined with Japanese mastery of surprise and technological innovation, highlighted an enduring lesson in preparedness and the risks of complacency,” notes the Command website.
On December 8, 1941, the day after the attack, President Franklin D. Roosevelt addressed a joint session of Congress, delivering his “Day of Infamy” speech. In it, he urged lawmakers to declare war on Japan. The response was rapid: the Senate unanimously supported the declaration, while the House of Representatives saw a contrary vote from Montana Congresswoman Jeannette Rankin, a lifelong pacifist. That same evening, Roosevelt signed the formal declaration of war, marking the United States' entry into World War II.
The attack on Pearl Harbor was not an isolated event but part of Japan's broader strategy to establish dominance in the Asia-Pacific region. Tensions between the United States and Japan had been rising for years, driven largely by Japan's aggressive territorial expansion in Asia. In response, the United States has implemented economic sanctions, including restrictions on exports of aircraft and other critical materials to Japan. These sanctions, intended to curb Japan's ambitions, instead heightened tensions, setting the stage for the attack on Pearl Harbor.
Japan's goal with the assault was to cripple the U.S. Pacific Fleet and prevent interference with its plans for further expansion into Asia. However, the attack had the opposite effect, galvanizing American resolve and uniting the nation as few events in history have.
Today, the legacy of Pearl Harbor continues to solemnly serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made that day and the resilience that followed. The USS Arizona The memorial, which encompasses the wreckage of the sunken battleship, represents a powerful tribute to those who lost their lives. Without physically touching the ship's remains, the memorial allows visitors to honor the memory of the more than 1,100 sailors and Marines who died aboard the ship.
This week, Ira “Ike” Schab Jr., a 104-year-old Navy veteran and one of the few remaining survivors of Pearl Harbor, returned to Hawaii to participate in memorial events. Schab, who was a Navy musician stationed at Pearl Harbor during the attack, was greeted at Honolulu International Airport with a water cannon salute and music performed by the U.S. Pacific Fleet Band.
When asked what his memories were of that fateful day, Schab shared his emotions Hawaii news now. “I was scared, more than anything,” he said. Despite the fear and chaos of that day, Schab stressed the importance of remembering the sacrifices made and honoring those who served. “They deserve to be recognized and honored,” he said, reflecting on the dwindling number of survivors of that pivotal moment in history.
As the nation commemorates the 83rd anniversary of Pearl Harbor, the lessons of that day remain as relevant as ever. The attack underlined the importance of vigilance, the dangers of underestimating an adversary and the resilience of a united nation in the face of adversity. For President Biden, the story of Pearl Harbor serves not only as a reminder of the cost of war, but also as a call to action for the challenges of the present and future.
In his remarks, Biden highlighted the current generation's responsibility to build on the legacy of those who came before them. Just as decisions made in the aftermath of Pearl Harbor shaped the trajectory of the 20th century, choices made today will determine the direction of the nation for decades to come.