On the 83rd anniversary of Pearl Harbor Day, a series of observances have been organized to remember the attack that occurred on December 7, 1941. The commemorative event, co-hosted by the National Park Service and Commander, Navy Region Hawaii (CNRH), highlights the legacy of World War II veterans, as their numbers continue to dwindle. Notably, this year’s ceremonies will include the interment of a former Pearl Harbor survivor, Gilbert Meyer, aboard the wreck of the USS Utah, reinforcing the importance of honoring past sacrifices while looking to the future.
In attendance will be approximately 135 World War II veterans, a marked decrease from the fewer than 30 veterans who participated in last year’s events. Despite this trend, younger service members are actively engaging in the commemoration. This year, a keynote address will be delivered by the granddaughter of a Pearl Harbor survivor, emphasizing the theme of “Forging Ahead.” Jim Neuman, history and outreach manager for CNRH, articulated this sentiment, stating, “Although we honor those who passed away, we want to look forward to the future.”
Gilbert Meyer, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 100, served in the Navy for 22 years and was a Fireman First Class when the USS Utah was attacked. His life was marked by resilience; on his 100th birthday, he donated land to veterans and authored a book about his wartime experiences. His nephew, Gilbert Benton, expressed the deep emotional significance of the interment for the family, underscoring the continuity of such personal histories.
The Pearl Harbor Day commemoration will conclude on December 8 with the Blackened Canteen ceremony aboard the USS Arizona Memorial, which commemorates the more than 2,300 service members and civilians lost during the attack. This remembrance highlights not only the tragedy of that day but also the importance of peace and renewal.
As Neuman explained, the design of the Arizona Memorial symbolizes both remembrance of the past and hope for the future, reflecting Alfred Preis’s vision for promoting lasting partnerships and peace. The theme “Forging Ahead” serves as a reminder of the resilience shown by veterans and survivors, as well as the responsibility of future generations to uphold the values for which these heroes fought.
The commemoration thus stands as a pivotal event, not only honoring those who served but also inspiring unwavering hope for lasting peace and unity for future generations. Through the dedication and involvement of younger service members, the legacy of Pearl Harbor continues to shape a shared commitment to these ideals.
In summary, the observance of Pearl Harbor Day not only reflects on the sacrifices made during a pivotal moment in history, but it also fosters a sense of duty and collective responsibility to ensure that the lessons learned from that day continue to resonate with future generations.