Governor Gavin Newsom has officially proclaimed December 7, 2024, as Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day in California. This designation honors the memory of the tragic events that occurred 83 years ago when Imperial Japan launched a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, claiming the lives of over 2,400 American service members and civilians while severely damaging the Pacific Fleet.
In his proclamation, Governor Newsom emphasized the significance of this day, noting that it is a moment to remember the sacrifices of those who defended Pearl Harbor and all service members who have bravely fought to protect the nation’s freedoms on various battlefields around the world. He recalls President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s powerful words referring to December 7, 1941, as a “date which will live in infamy,” underlining the lasting impact of that day on American history.
The governor invites all Californians to reflect on the themes of sacrifice and heroism associated with Pearl Harbor. The proclamation serves as a reminder of the enormous debt owed to those who gave their lives to ensure a safer, freer, and more just world.
The formal proclamation was signed on November 4, 2024, and includes the Great Seal of California, reaffirming the state’s commitment to honoring its history and its heroes.
This commemorative day not only acknowledges the sacrifices of the past but also encourages a spirit of remembrance and appreciation for the service members who continue to protect the nation today. It serves as a hopeful reminder that, amid challenges, the values of honor, freedom, and bravery endure.