The intro from vfxpro.com:

When Eric Brevig was approached by Michael Bay to serve as visual effects supervisor on "Pearl Harbor," it was with a mixture of apprehension and excitement that he accepted the job. The attack is a daunting event to approach on film, especially in the feel-good form of the summer blockbuster. Technically as well as politically, the filmmakers would have their hands full. When Brevig got to Hawaii, his trepidation only grew. "When I saw how little there was that was actually filmable, the magnitude of what we had to do became clear," said Brevig. "It was too late by then because I was already on the show." Industrial Light & Magic's work on the film included three battle sequences, historically accurate CG ships and planes, CG water and fire, unconventional 3D camera paths, matte paintings, and the intricate composition of live action, independent physical elements and animation.

Set against the violent backdrop of World War II, "Pearl Harbor" spins an operatic tale of love between two pilots and a nurse. Evelyn Stewart (Kate Beckinsale) falls for Rafe McCawley (Ben Affleck). Ace fighter pilot McCawley is promptly shipped off to fight in England, leaving his best friend Danny Walker (Josh Hartnett) and his best girl Stewart behind. Stewart and Walker are both stationed in Hawaii, however, the two don't make contact until the fateful day when Walker must tell Stewart that McCawley's plane has been shot down and he is presumed dead. Soon, the best girl and the best friend's zealous mourning for the flyboy turns romantic. McCawley shows up in Hawaii having miraculously survived the plane wreck at sea, and confusion ensues.

Brevig's job was to create the war against which this love story was set. Working closely with director Michael Bay, he did double duty on the film, acting as both VFX supervisor and second unit director. "He is a very demanding director with an amazing visual style," Brevig said of Bay. "He does not sit still for mediocre photography, so if you are going to shoot something it better have some pizzazz." Though Brevig had not worked with Bay before, he got up to speed quickly. "The work was looking good, so we had a good relationship," he said.

Hit the photo above for the full Q&A including details of the infamous bomb drop sequence. Thanks to Brian G. for the alert!