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Yesterday, Dec. 7, 1941 - a date which will live in infamy - the United
States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and
air forces of the Empire of Japan.
The United States was at peace with that nation and, at the solicitation
of Japan, was still in conversation with its government and its emperor
looking toward the maintenance of peace in the Pacific.
Indeed, one hour after Japanese air squadrons had commenced bombing
in the American Island of Oahu, the Japanese ambassador to the United
States and his colleagues delivered to our Secretary of State a formal
reply to a recent American message. And while this reply stated that
it seemed useless to continue the existing diplomatic negotiations,
it contained no threat or hint of war or of armed attack.
It will be recorded that the distance of Hawaii from Japan makes it
obvious that the attack was deliberately planned many days or even weeks
ago. During the intervening time, the Japanese government has deliberately
sought to deceive the United States by false statements and expressions
of hope for continued peace.
The attack yesterday on the Hawaiian islands has caused severe damage
to American naval and military forces. I regret to tell you that very
many American lives have been lost. In addition, American ships have been
reported torpedoed on the high seas between San Francisco and Honolulu.
Yesterday, the Japanese government also launched an attack against Malaya.
Last night, Japanese forces attacked Hong Kong.
Last night, Japanese forces attacked Guam.
Last night, Japanese forces attacked the Philippine Islands.
Last night, the Japanese attacked Wake Island.
And this morning, the Japanese attacked Midway Island.
Japan has, therefore, undertaken a surprise offensive extending throughout
the Pacific area. The facts of yesterday and today speak for themselves.
The people of the United States have already formed their opinions and
well understand the implications to the very life and safety of our
nation. As commander in chief of the Army and Navy, I have directed
that all measures be taken for our defense.
That always will our whole nation remember the character of the
onslaught against us.
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.
I believe that I interpret the will of the Congress and of the people
when I assert that we will not only defend ourselves to the uttermost,
but will make it very certain that this form of treachery shall never
endanger us again. Hostilities exist. There is no blinking at the fact
that that our people, our territory, and our interests are in grave
danger. With confidence in our armed forces - with the unbounding determination
of our people - we will gain the inevitable triumph - so help us God.
I ask that the Congress declare that since the unprovoked and dastardly
attack by Japan on Sunday, December 7, 1941, a state of war has existed
between the United States and the Japanese Empire.
Click here
to listen to the speech in Real Audio.
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Copyright
© 1994-2005 Stephen Payne
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