|
 Presidential
Proclamation
President Franklin D. Roosevelt declared December 7, 1941, a "date which will
live in infamy." With over 3,500 Americans killed or wounded, the surprise
attack by the Imperial Japanese on Pearl Harbor was an attempt to break the
American will and destroy our Pacific Fleet. They succeeded in doing neither. On
National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, we pay tribute to the brave men and women
who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country, and we honor all those who
selflessly served our Nation at home and abroad during World War II.
On a tranquil Sunday morning, as war raged around the globe, the attack on Pearl
Harbor effectively ended American isolation -- thrusting our Nation into action.
Japanese airplanes had launched an unprovoked assault on our military with
immense firepower, and our service members valiantly answered the call. They
defended their positions, fought back against the attackers, and cared for the
wounded. In that darkest hour, men and women who had considered themselves
ordinary found within themselves the ability to do something extraordinary. And
in the months and years that followed, Americans all across the country would
respond to Pearl Harbor with firm resolve, many joining our Armed Forces to
defend our shores and our freedom.
This courage is not uncommon in the story of America -- a story of heroes whose
sacrifice and valor speak to their love of comrades and country; and whose
goodness guides our quest for lasting peace. Today, and every day, we draw
strength from the moment when the best among us defended an island and a Nation
from the onslaught of tyranny, and forever altered the course of our history.
The Congress, by Public Law 103-308, as amended, has designated December 7 of
each year as "National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day."
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do
hereby proclaim Monday, December 7, 2009, as National Pearl Harbor Remembrance
Day. I encourage all Americans to observe this solemn day of remembrance with
appropriate ceremonies and activities. I urge all Federal agencies and
interested organizations, groups, and individuals to fly the flag of the United
States at half-staff this December 7 in honor of those American patriots who
died as a result of their service at Pearl Harbor.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fourth day of December, in
the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.
BARACK OBAMA |
