Yesterday,
December 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 Oahu, the
Japanese Ambassador to the United States and his colleague delivered
to the Secretary of State a formal reply to a recent American message.
While this reply stated that it seemed useless to continue the existing
diplomatic negotiations, it contained no threat or hint of war or 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. 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.
This morning
the Japanese attacked Midway Island.
Japan
has, therefore, undertaken a surprise offensive extending throughout
the Pacific area. The facts of yesterday 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.
Always
will we 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 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 very certain that this form of treachery shall never endanger
us again.
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 7, a state of war has existed between the
United States and the Japanese Empire.