On the 82nd anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii political leaders reflected on the significance of the event and its place in the history of Hawaii and the United States.

What You Need To Know

  • Under the direction of Pres. Joe Biden, Gov. Josh Green ordered the U.S. flag and Hawaii state flag to be flown at half staff through sundown on Thursday

  • Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi called the anniversary “a poignant reminder of the sacrifice, resilience and unity that define our community and nation”

  • Hawaii’s Congressional delegation also offered public statements on the anniversary, with U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono calling for both remembrance and a commitment to lasting peace

  • U.S. Rep. Jill Tokuda focused her comments on the enduring values that were affirmed in the aftermath of the attacks

Under the direction of President Joe Biden, Gov. Josh Green ordered the U.S. flag and Hawaii state flag to be flown at half staff through sundown on Thursday.

“This is a day for all of the world, but especially Hawaii, to solemnly honor the sacrifices of so many service members and civilians who lost their lives during the December 7, 1941, attack that changed the course of world history,” Green said. “We are grateful for the peace that has since reigned between the U.S. and Japan, and for the especially close ties forged between Japan and Hawaii.”

Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi called the anniversary “a poignant reminder of the sacrifice, resilience and unity that define our community and nation.”

“This day holds profound significance in our shared history, marking a pivotal moment that shaped the course of our great country and future generations,” Blangiardi said in a statement issued Thursday morning. “As we reflect on the events of December 7, 1941, let us honor the memory of those who lost their lives, pay tribute to the brave men and women who defended our shores, and express gratitude to the survivors whose stories inspire us to this day. 

“Pearl Harbor serves as a symbol of both tragedy and triumph, embodying the strength of our community in the face of unprecedented adversity,” he said. “Let us come together as a city to remember and to acknowledge the enduring spirit that binds us as one ohana.”  

Hawaii’s Congressional delegation also offered public statements on the anniversary, with U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono calling for both remembrance and a commitment to lasting peace.

“As we honor the memory and courage of more than 2,000 servicemembers and civilians who lost their lives that solemn day, may we never stop striving for peace,” Hirono said.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz honored the service members who lost their lives on “tragic day that forever changed the trajectory of Hawaii—and the world.”

“On Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, we pay respect to the many lives lost in the attack, and honor the sacrifices made by those who answered the call that day to serve in World War II,” Schatz said. “They were American heroes of the highest order and we are forever indebted to their service.”

U.S. Rep. Jill Tokuda focused her comments on the enduring values that were affirmed in the aftermath of the attacks.

“Let us reflect on the lessons of history: the importance of unity, resilience, and our enduring commitment to peace,” Tokuda said. “May we always strive for a world where such sacrifices are never needed again.”

Michael Tsai covers local and state politics for Spectrum News Hawaii. He can be reached at michael.tsai@charter.com.