Veterans remember Pearl Harbor’s 80th anniversary

Today marks the 80th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, a defining event that led the U.S. to join World War II. Veterans around the nation honor the victims of the attack.

"A lot of young guys enlisted during World War II to be part of the war effort. Many of them were even underage. They wanted to help this country — to help our country. They wanted us to win. There was a feeling of unity toward a common goal,” a veteran told Fox News. "And if we don't unite today, we will certainly fall."

Eighty years ago, the Imperial Japanese Navy attacked Pearl Harbor, a naval base in Oahu, Hawaii on December 7 at 7:48 a.m. local time. The attack killed 2,403 U.S. military personnel, 68 civilians, and destroyed 19 navy ships.

The surprise attack launched America into World War II. A day after the attack, on December 8, 1941, the U.S. declared war on Japan.

Several survivors of Pearl Harbor will gather today at the site to remember those who were killed in the attack. About 100 veterans and 30 survivors are expected to join the event.

“It was just plain good to get back and be able to participate in the remembrance of the day,” said one of the veterans.

President Biden joined in remembering the attack. Biden and First Lady Jill Biden visited the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday.

“It was a day that still lives in infamy 80 years later. As we mark National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, we honor the patriots who perished, commemorate the valor of all those who defended our Nation, and recommit ourselves to carrying forth the ensuing peace and reconciliation that brought a better future for our world,” said Biden in a White House proclamation last week.