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Yesterday, December 7th, 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
colleague 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.
But 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 again endanger
us.
Hostilities exist. There is no blinking at the fact 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 7th, 1941, a state of war has existed
between the United States and the Japanese empire.
