On the morning of December 7th, 1941, the Imperial Japanese Navy launched a surprise attack against the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, in a military strike that came as a shock to the U.S. The base was targeted by 353 Japanese aircraft in two waves, with the objective of neutralizing the United States Pacific Fleet, thereby preventing it from interfering with Japanese military operations in Southeast Asia

The Arizona Memorial, located at Pearl Harbor, marks the resting place of 1,177 of the 1,512 sailors and Marines killed on the USS Arizona during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The memorial is built over the remains of the ship, which still lies at the bottom of the harbor. The memorial is visited by more than two million people annually and is one of Hawaii’s top tourist attractions. The memorial is accessible only by boat and tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The attack on Pearl Harbor was a devastating blow to the United States. The Pacific Fleet was severely damaged, with eight battleships sunk or heavily damaged, as well as numerous other ships and aircraft. The attack resulted in the deaths of 2,403 Americans and the injury of 1,178. The attack was a major factor in the United States’ decision to enter World War II, as President Franklin D. Roosevelt delivered his famous “Day of Infamy” speech to Congress, declaring war on Japan the following day.

The USS Arizona Memorial is a stark reminder of the tragic events that occurred on December 7th, 1941. The memorial features a 184-foot long, white concrete structure that spans the mid-portion of the sunken battleship. Visitors can view the ship’s remains through the memorial’s large windows, and can also observe the oil leak from the ship, which is said to be the “tears of the Arizona.” The memorial also features a museum with exhibits on the attack and the history of the USS Arizona.

The USS Arizona Memorial is a National Historic Landmark and a National Monument. It was dedicated in 1962 and has since been visited by millions of people from all over the world. The memorial is operated by the National Park Service and is open to the public year-round, with the exception of a few holidays. The memorial’s design is meant to symbolize the country’s resolve in the face of adversity and to honor the memory of those who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor.

In conclusion, the attack on Pearl Harbor was a devastating surprise attack that claimed many lives and marked the United States’ entry into World War II. The USS Arizona Memorial, located at Pearl Harbor, serves as a reminder of the tragic events that occurred on December 7th, 1941, and honors the memory of those who lost their lives during the attack. It is a National Historic Landmark and a National Monument that is visited by millions of people annually. The memorial is a powerful symbol of the country’s resolve in the face of adversity and a fitting tribute to those who lost their lives in service to their country.