Today marks the 77th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor.

On December 7th, 1941 hundreds of Japanese fighter planes attacked the naval base at Pearl Harbor . 20 American naval vessels, including eight battleships, and more than 300 airplanes were destroyed. More than 2,000 american soldiers and sailors died and 1,000 were wounded during the attack. Additionally, 68 civilians were also killed and 35 were wounded.  The attack lasted 110 minutes, from 7:55 a.m. until 9:45 a.m. The Japanese lost 65 men, with an additional soldier being captured.

On December 8th, President Roosevelt declared that December 7th, 1941 would be “a date that will live in infamy”.  President Roosevelt said, “No matter now 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.” That day, December 8th, 1941 The United States declared war on Japan. Bringing the US into World War II.

For more information visit: http://www.history.com/topics/world-war-ii/pearl-harbor