Today in World War II History—December 17, 1941

Admiral Nimitz addressing officers after assuming command of US Pacific Fleet, Pearl Harbor, 31 Dec 1941; Admiral Kimmel at right (US Naval History and Heritage Command: NH 62021)
80 Years Ago—Dec. 17, 1941: Due to Pearl Harbor attack, Adm. Chester Nimitz is named to replace Rear Adm. Husband Kimmel as Commander in Chief, Pacific Fleet.
Germans intern 340 American men in France; those Americans not interned have to report weekly to German military commanders.
North Platte Canteen opens at Union Pacific station in North Platte, Nebraska; will serve 6 million servicemen.