“A date which will live in infamy” The famous quote made by President Franklin D. Roosevelt after the notorious attack on Pearl Harbor led to the United States' involvement in WWII. Despite the many years that stretch between then and now, the effects of Pearl Harbor are still felt today by those who fought for the U.S. and their loved ones.
What is Pearl Harbor?
Pearl Harbor is a United States Naval base, 2,000 miles off the coast of Honolulu, Hawaii, located in the center of the Pacific Ocean. Pearl Harbor was invaded, attacked, and bombed by Japanese forces on December 7, 1941. The death rate of this attack reached 2,401 which included both soldiers and civilians.
The attack on Pearl Harbor was not expected, which led to the severity of the damages and the high death count.
Impact of Pearl Harbor
Almost immediately after the attack on Pearl Harbor occurred, on December 8th, 1941, President Kennedy declared War on Japan, which Congress accepted. This was the beginning of America entering WWII. Fortunately, even with the massive amount of destruction caused by the Japanese, the base’s most vital facilities were left intact causing the rebound of the U.S. Navy to rebound quickly.
The After Effects of Pearl Harbor Attack Today
Not only was the attack on Pearl Harbor a catalyst for the U.S. involvement in WWII but it also changed history. WWII resulted in the U.S. becoming a global military and a political superpower.
Although the attack happened many years ago, the effects of Pearl Harbor still remain. The event will always be remembered and the family members who lost their loved ones are still hurting. Many of the survivors of Pearl Harbor, the few that are still alive today, express the difficulty in remembering the tragedy that ensued following the attack.
Veterans, active-duty personnel, as well as their families are all affected when it comes to these tragic, and at most times, surprising events. Oftentimes, veterans and active-duty military struggle to manage difficult memories and emotions associated with the combat they’ve experienced on their own. Many eventually develop a mental illness, most commonly post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as a result.
Seeking counseling is often the answer when overcoming the emotions associated with the memories of active service. Banyan Treatment Centers Military & Veterans in Recovery program offers levels of care and support to the military, veterans, and their families. If you need help contact us today (888) 221-6830.
