December 7, 1941--A Date Which Will Live in Infamy

On Dec. 8, 1941, the day after the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt addressed a joint session of Congress. Congress voted to declare war on the Japanese later that day.

 

 

FDR addresses Congress. Behind him are Vice President Henry A. Wallace (left) and Speaker of the House Sam Rayburn. The man in uniform is FDR's son James.

James Roosevelt would receive the Navy Cross for extraordinary heroism while serving in the Marine Corps. "The Navy Cross is presented to James Roosevelt, Major, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service as second in command of the Second Marine Raider Battalion against enemy Japanese armed forces on Makin island. Risking his own life over and above the ordinary call of duty, Major Roosevelt continually exposed himself to intense machine-gun and sniper fire to ensure effective control of operations from the command post. As a result of his successful maintenance of communications with his supporting vessels, two enemy surface ships, whose presence was reported, were destroyed by gun fire. Later during evacuation, he displayed exemplary courage in personally rescuing three men from drowning in the heavy surf. His gallant conduct and his inspiring devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."