Days after japan attacked pearl harbor, president franklin d. roosevelt addressed congress, asking for a declaration of war. what is the purpose of repetition in this excerpt from his speech? the attack yesterday on the hawaiian islands has caused severe damage to american naval and military forces. i regret to tell you that very many american lives have been lost. in addition, american ships have been reported torpedoed on the high seas between san francisco and honolulu. yesterday the japanese government also launched an attack against malaya. last night japanese forces attacked hong kong. last night japanese forces attacked guam. last night japanese forces attacked the philippine islands. last night the japanese attacked wake island. and this morning the japanese attacked midway island. japan has, therefore, undertaken a surprise offensive extending throughout the pacific area. the facts of yesterday and today speak for themselves. the people of the united states have already formed their opinions and well understand the implications to the very life and safety of our nation. as commander in chief of the army and navy i have directed that all measures be taken for our defense. but always will our whole nation remember the character of the onslaught against us. no matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the american people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory. i believe that i interpret the will of the congress and of the people when i assert that we will not only defend ourselves to the uttermost but will make it very certain that this form of treachery shall never again endanger us.