On the 83rd anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack, commemorations are set to honor the legacy of those who served during World War II, particularly the brave veterans and survivors. Approximately 135 veterans attended the observance in 2021, while last year saw a decline to fewer than 30 attendees, a poignant reflection of the passing of the Greatest Generation.
This year’s events are co-hosted by the National Park Service and Commander, Navy Region Hawaii (CNRH), featuring various observances including the interment of Pearl Harbor survivor Gilbert Meyer aboard the USS Utah. Meyer, who died in 2023 at the age of 100, had a distinguished Navy career and made significant contributions to his community and fellow veterans, including donating land for a Veterans of Foreign Wars meeting hall and authoring a memoir. His family, including his nephew Gilbert Benton, highlighted the personal significance of this year’s interment.
A theme of “Forging Ahead” encapsulates the events, aiming to not only reflect on the past but also inspire future generations. Young service members are actively participating, bridging the gap between history and present-day service, while the granddaughter of a Pearl Harbor survivor serves as the keynote speaker at the primary ceremony.
The commemoration will also include the Blackened Canteen ceremony, rooted in a touching story from World War II where a Japanese farmer honored both American and Japanese war casualties. This ceremony serves as a testament to the importance of peace and reconciliation, reminding us of the shared humanity that prevails even in times of conflict.
The Pearl Harbor National Memorial serves as the heart of the observance, dedicated to more than 2,300 individuals who lost their lives during the attack, with special tribute to the USS Arizona and its crew. Jim Neuman, a key planner of the observance, emphasizes the dual focus of honoring the past while actively looking forward to the future—a commitment to peace and remembrance.
As fewer veterans remain, the importance of these memorials and the stories they preserve becomes ever more vital. The loss of the last Arizona survivor, Lou Conter in 2024, signifies the end of an era, yet his passing inspires a renewed commitment among younger generations to uphold and honor the sacrifices made during World War II.
In summary, the observance of Pearl Harbor Day this year not only commemorates a pivotal moment in history but also serves as a rallying point for future generations to honor the legacy of resilience, courage, and the enduring hope for peace that defined the actions of those who served. This blending of remembrance and aspiration continues to resonate, setting a powerful example for our collective future.