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"Yesterday, December 7, 1941 -- a date which will live in infamy -- the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by the naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan" begins President Franklin Roosevelt's six minute speech to both houses of Congress. He details the damage of the Pearl Harbor attack: 18 ships sunk or heavily damaged, over 300 army and navy planes destroyed, and over 2,400 American lives lost. President Roosevelt closes by asking Congress to declare a state of war. Congress votes 435-1 to declare war on Japan.

Pearl Harbor Activity Station
During the hectic period right after Pearl Harbor, navy men with families, like Dale Gano, were given a day off to look for loved ones. At first Dale had no luck. A few days later, when he finally found Johnie, Dale was relieved but also so anxious that he angrily blurted out, "Where have you been!" Johnie, who had been so strong through everything, broke down in tears.

The first few days after Pearl Harbor, many Americans felt insecure, panicky, and angry. With a shock, they realized that the U.S. could be attacked by another country at any moment. Johnie and Dale were happy to be reunited, but how did they feel about what had happened? Were they nervous that they could be attacked again?

Find out by reading their interview. What do you think your reaction would have been once you saw someone you cared for, after the Pearl Harbor attack?

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