On the 83rd anniversary of Pearl Harbor Day, a solemn commemoration will take place, marking the infamous attack of December 7, 1941, which led to the United States’ entry into World War II. This year, younger generations will play a significant role in honoring the legacy of veterans, as fewer than 30 World War II veterans could be present at last year’s observances, a stark contrast to the 135 who attended the 80th anniversary in 2021.
The event, co-hosted by the National Park Service and the Commander, Navy Region Hawaii, will feature various ceremonies, including the interment of Pearl Harbor survivor Gilbert Meyer aboard the USS Utah. Meyer, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 100, was a Navy veteran who served for 22 years and shared his experiences through a book and donations aimed at supporting veterans. His family, particularly his 79-year-old nephew, Gilbert Benton, emphasize the emotional significance of this year’s interment as they remember a beloved relative and his fellow sailors.
The commemoration will also incorporate participation from Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps units, with the keynote address delivered by the granddaughter of a Pearl Harbor survivor. Jim Neuman, a lead planner for the event, underscored the importance of looking to the future even as we honor those lost. This year’s theme, “Forging Ahead,” resonates with the idea of resilience and the commitment of younger generations to carry forward the lessons learned from history.
A notable component of the ceremony on December 8 will be the Blackened Canteen ceremony, which honors both American and Japanese lives lost during the war. This poignant ritual originated from a tragic plane crash in Japan and has become a symbol of reconciliation and remembrance.
The Pearl Harbor National Memorial, comprising the USS Arizona Memorial, serves as a vital tribute to the more than 2,300 service members and civilians who perished during the attack. The memorial’s design reflects the fluctuating journey from the heights of peace to the depths of loss, emphasizing the need for ongoing partnerships and peace-building efforts.
As our society acknowledges the passing of the last surviving crew member of the USS Arizona, the narrative of perseverance continues. Neuman highlighted that the younger generation has an important responsibility to ensure that the lessons from Pearl Harbor and the sacrifices made by veterans are honored through action, paving the way for a more peaceful world.
In summary, this year’s observance of Pearl Harbor Day not only honors those who fought and fell on that fateful day but also inspires hope and commitment from the younger generation to maintain peace and honor the legacy of the Greatest Generation. This annual remembrance fosters a sense of unity and resilience, essential characteristics for moving forward together.