I was reflecting this morning that the events of December 7, 1941, would have made Christmas an anxious time for millions of Americans.

It was on this date 80 years ago that the Imperial Japanese Navy launched a surprise strike on the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor, precipitating the U.S.’ entry into World War II. Sailors, soldiers, airmen, marines, and civilians were caught in the attack. In all, 2,403 Americans were killed and 1,178 wounded.

A stunning blow, by any measure. Yet, from what I gather, though surely shadows must have flitted across the consciousness of any rational celebrant that year, Christmas in the U.S. proceeded pretty much as it always had.

Of course, it wouldn’t be long before the war turned everyone’s lives upside down. There was the need to organize, train, and outfit an enormous influx of civilians into the armed forces. Means of production would be adapted to meet the necessities of defense. For those who remained at home, there would be restrictions on many facets of American life. It would be a time of enormous personal sacrifice, and of course concern for loved ones deployed around the globe.

It’s hardly conceivable today, when so many Americans are affronted by the slightest suggestion that there is a world outside of themselves, that our citizenry would be up to such a challenge. Not when people become apoplectic if they have to wear a mask or endure a Columbus Day parade. I shudder to think what would be the reaction when the butter, bacon, and sugar disappeared.

Christmas 1942 was really the era’s first “wartime Christmas.” In 1941, aside from any psychological discomfort, there were few deprivations for Americans. Gas rationing would begin in December 1942, and a 35 mph “Victory Speed Limit” imposed. By 1943, metal would disappear from kids’ toys and copper from pennies. In the coming years, fathers, sons, and brothers would be in short supply, as they spent Christmas abroad with Uncle Sam.

Wartime Christmas was not merry for all, by any means. During the conflict, some of our fighting men were lucky enough to get turkey. Others were fortunate to get an apple or even a potato. All would have been thankful for their lives.

Here’s an interesting article on American Christmases during World War II. I never realized that the nylon shortage was because the material was needed to make parachutes. I guess the dream was kept alive through pin-ups. At least Artur Rodzinski’s recording of the “1812 Overture” was selling well.

https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-military/2018/12/18/christmas-in-wartime/

It’s not difficult to understand why wartime favorites like “White Christmas” and “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” were embraced in their poignancy. While family celebrations would continue during those lean years, for most servicemen, attendance would be only in their dreams.

Newsreel of Pearl Harbor devastation

FDR’s declaration of war

“I’ll Be Home for Christmas”

Rodzinski’s “1812”