THE TWO WAVES

The attack was by air, and was led by Commander Mitsuo Fuchida. The first wave included 183 fighters, bombers and torpedo bombers and struck at the fleet of Pearl Harbor. The attack shocked the Americans, and at first it seemed as though they were hopeless. However lucky for them their Aircraft Carriers and one of the battle ships were not at port; leaving the Americans with hope to defend themselves.

        FACT: The Americans were just returning from Wake Island where they had just delievered some aircraft. 
 
        The second wave took place shortly after the first occurred; at 08.54 a.m.. This attack had 170 planes involved, and finished off the attack on Pearl Harbor. It is believed that President Roosevelt was warned on more then one occasion that these attackes would occur. The theory behind him ignoring these supposid ‘threats’ is that he wanted to be part of the war, and if he let this attack happen, the Americans would have reason to retaliate and get involved.
 
        What Roosevelt didn’t seem to care much about, was the effect it would have on the people at Pearl Harbor, and the overall damage that this ‘day of infiny’ would cause:
 

        Overall, American casualties came to a total of 2,395 deaths, (this including 54 civilians).

        For the names of those whom passed at Pearl Harbor, you can follow this link: http://www.usswestvirginia.org/ph/phlist.php

Below is a list of ships that were damaged and destroyed at Pearl Harbour, and to what extent :