Decoding The Pearl Harbor Enigma: Unraveling The Evidence of American Preparation
One of the most debated episodes in American history revolves around the United States government's foreknowledge of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. While there is ample evidence that the United States was aware of the impending conflict, the question remains whether intelligence officials had specific knowledge of the timing and location of the attack.
The State of American Intelligence
As early as 1941, American intelligence agencies were aware of Japan's aggressive intentions and the possibility of war.
US intelligence saw the signs of war early on. However, they lacked precise information about Japan's specific plans, timing, and target.
Commanders
Kimmel and Short, responsible for the defense of Hawaii, were not under the illusion that an attack would be launched from the Pacific. They feared a sabotage by the ethnic Japanese living in the islands. As such, they prepared for this scenario rather than a carrier-launched attack.
Japan intended to strike very shortly after issuing a declaration of war, as this would cause maximum shock and disarray in the United States. However, the US anticipated this and delayed the meeting, causing the declaration to come after the attack.
The Defense of Hawaii: A Farce or Preparation?
The defense of Pearl Harbor and the island of Hawaii have been subject to intense scrutiny. Here are the points that highlight the apparent shortcomings in the defense strategy:
Colonel Short's concerns: The US Army commander on Hawaii, General Short, was more worried about possible sabotage by locals rather than a potential air attack. As a result, US Army aircraft were parked in rows, making them easy targets for Japanese aircraft during the attack.
U.S. Navy's in-transit strategy: On the day of the attack, the US Navy was in port, aligning with standard peacetime procedures. It would have been safer if they were at sea, making them harder to find.
Radar reports: Earlier radar reports were not effectively monitored or acted upon, indicating a lack of vigilance and preparedness.
A Missed Opportunity: Douglas MacArthur and the B-17 Forces
The response of American military leaders to the attack highlights a potential misstep:
Douglas MacArthur: As the military commander in the Philippines, MacArthur's inaction in moving the B-17 forces to Delmonte plantation, which was out of range of Japanese bombers, raises questions about his preparedness.
Gen Sutherland: MacArthur's chief of staff, Gen Sutherland, was a fervent supporter and should have been held accountable for his inaction.
Conclusion: Understanding the Lack of Preparedness
The situation surrounding the Pearl Harbor attack is a complex puzzle where multiple factors contributed to the lack of foreknowledge and readiness. Despite numerous 'straws in the wind' indicating potential conflict, the ability to connect these dots and formulate a comprehensive defense strategy was clearly lacking.
While the United States did have intelligence showing the possibility of a Japanese attack, the specifics of when and where the attack would occur remained elusive. The complex dynamics between different branches of the military and leadership decisions contributed to the existing vulnerabilities at Pearl Harbor.