The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 was a surprise attack launched from six aircraft carriers against the U.S. naval base. Over 2,300 American servicemen and 68 civilians were killed and significant damage was done to the U.S. Pacific fleet, including sinking or damaging eight battleships. Eyewitness accounts describe the bombing and its aftermath. The attack drew the U.S. into World War II and led to declarations of war against Japan by the U.S. and its allies.