Earl “Chuck” Kohler, a courageous Pearl Harbor survivor, recently reflected on his harrowing experiences during the attack 83 years ago. At just 17 years old, Kohler defied orders to take cover and instead rushed to assist in the defense of Ford Island as Japanese bombers attacked, marking a pivotal moment in U.S. history that would lead the nation into World War II.
On December 7, 1941, the surprise assault resulted in the tragic loss of 2,403 American lives and devastated the Pacific Fleet. Kohler, who hailed from a modest farming background, shared his thoughts in a recorded interview, emphasizing his desire to fight rather than hide. “Maybe I was a dumb farm boy,” he remarked, “but I know this is the beginning of that war… I want my family and my country to know I died fighting, not hiding.”
Now at the age of 100, Kohler is one of the last remaining survivors of the attack, with only 16 others still alive. This year, a large gathering is planned at Pearl Harbor to commemorate the anniversary and honor the courage of those who served during this era, dubbed the “Greatest Generation.”
Kathleen Farley, chair of the California state branch of the Sons and Daughters of Pearl Harbor Survivors, highlighted the importance of remembrance in honoring the sacrifices made that day. With plans for various ceremonies, she stressed that the memories of the 87,000 military personnel stationed on Oahu during the attack remain alive.
Other survivors, including Ken Stevens and 104-year-old Ira “Ike” Schab Jr., are also expected to attend the remembrance events. Schab, who was a musician aboard the USS Dobbin, initially found revisiting Pearl Harbor painful but is now committed to honoring those who are no longer here.
The tragic events of that day saw nearly 350 Japanese planes attacking the harbor, devastating ships and losing countless lives in a matter of hours. Kohler vividly recalled witnessing the destruction, stating, “What affected me the most was seeing those ships explode… knowing that with every one of those events there were a lot of lives being lost.”
This year, instead of heading to Hawaii for his commemoration, Kohler will participate in a Beacon lighting ceremony in California to honor veterans and remember the fallen. The Beacon on Mount Diablo serves as a symbol of connection for survivors and pays tribute to those lost during the attack, a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during wartime.
As the nation prepares to gather in remembrance, Kohler expressed a heartfelt wish: “If those who were lost there that day had a voice, they would say, ‘Remember us.’” His words resonate deeply as the legacy of courage and sacrifice continues to inspire generations.
The story of Earl “Chuck” Kohler reminds us not only of the sacrifices made during World War II but also of the enduring spirit of those who fought bravely. As the anniversary approaches, it serves as a powerful call to remember and honor the bravery and resilience of those who faced unprecedented challenges in defense of their country.