On this day in 1941, the Japanese launched a devastating surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, killing over 2,000 American military personnel and launching the U.S. into World War II. Amidst the tragedies of that fateful day, however, there were men who heroically rose to the occasion and displayed exceptional valor.
Among those heroes was John W. Finn, the first Medal of Honor recipient of World War II. The official Pearl Harbor website relates his remarkable story, which includes his continuing to fire at Japanese planes, despite receiving more than 20 wounds in the process. This undaunted American fighter survived to receive his Medal of Honor and numerous other awards, to enjoy a lengthy career in the Navy, and to travel to many places to share his story.
