

Mr. Vice President, Mr. Speaker, Members of the Senate, and of the House
of Representatives:

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.



