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PAPER XXXI
"Always will we remember the character of the onslaught against us."
Address before a joint session of the Senate and House of
Representatives asking for the declaration of the existence of a
state of war with the Japanese Empire, the Capitol, December 8, 1941
To the Congress of the United States:
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 in 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.
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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 unbounded 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.
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See Paper XXXIII of this series for the message calling for a
declaration of a state of war with Germany and Italy.