On the morning of December 7, 1941, the course of American history changed forever. The Japanese military descended on the U.S. Navy base at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii, destroying battleships, aircraft, and facilities during the shocking attack.
In just a few hours, more than 2,400 Americans were killed, and over 1,000 were wounded. The attack propelled the United States into World War II, marking the beginning of a defining chapter in our nation’s history.
Each year, on National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, we pause to remember those who lost their lives, those who survived, and the countless others who answered the call to serve in the years that followed.
At Sokolove Law, we also recognize the lasting challenges many Pearl Harbor-era veterans faced long after their service, including illnesses like mesothelioma caused by asbestos on U.S. Navy ships and military bases throughout the 20th century.
This year, on the 84th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, we’re honored to support the men and women who have sacrificed so much in order to defend our country’s freedom.
What Is Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day?
Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day is a national day of observance held each year to honor the Americans who were killed during the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. December 7, 2025 is the 84th anniversary of Pearl Harbor.
In addition to the thousands of civilians and U.S. military members who lost their lives or were injured, countless others bore witness to the destruction. The attack permanently sank two battleships, damaged others, and destroyed 188 aircraft.
In 1986, Congress officially designated December 7 as National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day under Public Law 99-534. They requested the president issue a proclamation in observance of the day.
“Every honor is appropriate for the courageous Americans who made the supreme sacrifice for our Nation at Pearl Harbor and in the many battles that followed in World War II. Their sacrifice was for a cause, not for conquest; for a world that would be safe for future generations. Their devotion must never be forgotten.”
– President Ronald Reagan, 1986
Today, Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day is marked by ceremonies, memorial events, and educational programs across the country, helping to ensure that those affected by this attack are never forgotten.
When Is Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day?
Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day takes place each year on December 7, the anniversary of the 1941 attack on the U.S. Navy base in Hawaii.
In 2025, we mark the 84th anniversary of that pivotal day in American history, which forever shaped the nation and pushed the United States to enter World War II.
This year, take time to pause, reflect, and honor those who served during the attack and the countless others who signed up to serve in the years after. Observing the day helps ensure that the events of December 7, 1941 are never forgotten.
How to Commemorate Pearl Harbor Day of Remembrance
The theme of this year’s Pearl Harbor Day of Remembrance is “Building Pathways to Peace,” which invites Americans to reflect on the sacrifices made by service members to preserve freedom and end the war.
Regardless of where you are in the country, there are ways to participate and show your respect for those who faced unimaginable horrors on December 7, 1941.
Find out how to commemorate Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day in 2025:
- Attend a memorial ceremony: Local, state, and national ceremonies often include speeches, moments of silence, and tributes to survivors and fallen service members.
- Lower flags to half-staff: Many government buildings, military facilities, and communities honor those who died in the attack by lowering the American flag to half-staff.
- Participate in moments of silence or prayer: Many communities observe a two-minute moment of remembrance at 7:55 a.m., which is the exact time the first bombs fell.
- Tour a U.S. Navy ship or museum: Some naval ships and military museums hold open houses, guided tours, or special ceremonies on December 7.
- Visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial: The memorial in Hawaii, which includes the USS Arizona Memorial, offers a solemn opportunity to reflect on the lives lost and learn about the attack’s history.
Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day is a meaningful way to recognize the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of American service members, while reflecting on the importance of peace and unity for future generations.
Another way to honor this day is by recognizing the continued challenges faced by many U.S. military veterans, including illnesses caused by exposure to toxic substances like asbestos during their service.
Asbestos in Pearl Harbor Shipyard
During much of the 20th century, asbestos was widely used by all branches of the U.S. military, including aboard naval ships, throughout military bases, and in shipyards.
Service members who worked with or around asbestos-containing materials, especially during the attack on Pearl Harbor and the subsequent ship repairs that followed, were at high risk of breathing in or swallowing airborne asbestos fibers.
Being exposed to asbestos can cause serious illnesses like lung cancer and mesothelioma, a rare cancer that often forms in the lining of the lungs or abdomen 20-50 years after exposure.
Support is available for veterans diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases, including VA benefits like disability compensation and free health care. Veterans and their loved ones may also qualify for compensation from legal claims.
These resources are designed to help veterans and their families with medical bills, lost wages, and other challenges resulting from service-related asbestos exposure.
Get Help from a Pearl Harbor Mesothelioma Lawyer
At Sokolove Law, our Pearl Harbor mesothelioma lawyers have over 45 years of experience helping veterans seek justice for illnesses caused by asbestos exposure.
With VA-accredited attorneys on staff and more than $5.3 Billion secured for clients with mesothelioma, we have what it takes to help your family pursue benefits and compensation.
There are no upfront costs or hourly fees to work with our Pearl Harbor mesothelioma lawyers, so you can get the help you deserve without facing any financial risk.
Call (800) 647-3434 now or fill out our contact form to get started with a free case review. You served us — now let us serve you.
