Early in the afternoon of December 7, 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt and his chief foreign policy aide, Harry Hopkins, were interrupted by a telephone call from Secretary of War Henry Stimson and told that the Japanese had attacked Pearl Harbor. At about 5:00 p.m., following meetings with his military advisers, the President calmly and decisively dictated to his secretary, Grace Tully, a request to Congress for a declaration of war.
Here is the original telegram sent from Pacific Fleet headquarters:
So, today, we of the Columbus Squadron remember the sacrifices and service of our gallant World War II veterans. We remember their unselfish and generous dedication to duty. They are our role models as many, many others who have and are wearing the Uniform of the US Military.
Thank You!
..And God Bless America!