On December 7, 1941, Japan launched a surprise attack on the United States at Pearl Harbor located in Honolulu, Hawaii. In total more than 2,000 sailors, soldiers, and civilians died that day and more than 1,000 people were injured. They destroyed 20 American naval vessels, eight battleships, and more than 300 airplanes.

The attack on Pearl Harbor was a very devastating and unexpected attack: “Coming in from all directions, the defenders had no idea which direction they should fire. Wave-after-wave, Japanese planes arrived targeting airstrips, ships, buildings, and storage areas” (pearlharbortours.com). The attacked lasted an astounding two hours. Hundreds of Japanese aircrafts filled the sky as they bombed and destroyed ships, planes, and even nearby airfields.

Veterans have the option to be buried at Pearl Harbor: “A remarkable USS Arizona fact that honors the survivors is that they have the option to join their lost comrades and make the ship their final resting place” (pearlharbortours.com). Only USS Arizona crew members also have the option to have their ashes buried beneath one of the gun turrets, 40+ members have chosen this option. Any other survivors can have their ashes scattered around Pearl Harbor.

The attack on Pearl Harbor an event to never be forgotten. Many Americans lost their loved ones and lives. To all the sailors and soldiers who survived or lost their lives, thank you for service.