Pearl Harbor Ceremony Commemorates 84th Anniversary of Historic Attack
The annual remembrance ceremony for Pearl Harbor commenced on Sunday at 7:55 a.m., marking the precise moment the Japanese attack began on December 7, 1941. This year’s event commemorated the 84th anniversary of the tragic event, which resulted in the deaths of over 2,300 American service members and ushered the United States into World War II.
Why It Matters
This ceremony serves as a vital reminder of a pivotal moment in American history when peace was abruptly disrupted. Recognizing the sacrifices of those who fought in World War II emphasizes the ongoing need for vigilance in preserving peace and honoring the legacy of the Greatest Generation.
Key Developments
- The ceremony featured a moment of silence at 7:55 a.m., coinciding with the time of the attack.
- David Ono, the event’s master of ceremonies, remarked on the importance of reflection and gratitude while urging attendees to build on the legacy of prior generations.
- This year, only 12 survivors of the attack remain, all centenarians, and none were able to attend the ceremony.
- The COVID-19 pandemic prevented public participation in the ceremony in 2020.
- Attendance has dwindled in recent years; approximately 2,000 survivors joined the 50th anniversary in 1991, while last year only two were present.
Full Report
The ceremony took place at the military base’s waterfront, a poignant location that honors those who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor. As Ono highlighted, the commemoration serves as both a moment of remembrance and an opportunity to inspire future generations to uphold the values instilled by those who served in World War II.
Historically, the event has drawn numerous survivors annually. However, as time passes, the number of eyewitnesses is steadily declining. With only 12 survivors alive today—none able to attend the ceremony—this year’s event emphasized the changing landscape of remembrance.
The last several decades have seen a significant reduction in survivor attendance. In 2020, concerns over the COVID-19 pandemic led to the cancellation of public participation in the event, a stark contrast to previous years when hundreds of veterans would gather to remember their fallen comrades.
Context & Previous Events
The attack on Pearl Harbor catalyzed the U.S. entry into World War II on December 7, 1941. The loss of life during the assault was substantial, resulting in over 2,300 military personnel killed. The annual remembrance ceremony began shortly after the end of the war and has continued to serve as a key point of reflection in American history.
In 1991, the 50th anniversary of the attack saw approximately 2,000 survivors in attendance, highlighting the robust community of veterans eager to share their stories. However, as decades pass, the number of living witnesses has dwindled significantly, with only two survivors present at the ceremony last year.
