SC honors Pearl Harbor heroes 83 years later with flags at half-staff

Flags Lowered in South Carolina for National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day

COLUMBIA, S.C. — On December 7, 2024, residents and visitors throughout South Carolina—and much of the nation—observed flags lowered to half-staff, marking the significance of the day. Many may have pondered the reason for this solemn tribute.

The President of the United States issued a proclamation designating December 7 as National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. This day serves to honor the sacrifices made by those who lost their lives during the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, a pivotal event that led the United States into World War II.

“On National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, we honor the 2,403 service members and civilians who were killed on that tragic December morning 83 years ago,” President Joe Biden stated in a proclamation released on the preceding Friday. “And we recognize the absolute courage of the service members who, in the wake of this painful and unprovoked attack, stood up to defend democracy and confront fascism abroad during World War II.”

In a related gesture of respect, Governor Henry McMaster also urged that flags be flown at half-staff over state buildings and political subdivisions throughout South Carolina.