On Saturday, a significant ceremony took place at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, marking the 83rd anniversary of the heroic and tragic events of December 7, 1941. Attendees observed a moment of silence at 7:55 a.m., the precise time when the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor commenced, followed by a poignant missing man flyover.
The attack involved 350 Japanese aircraft targeting the U.S. naval base, resulting in the loss of 2,403 American lives and inflicting severe damage to the U.S. Pacific Fleet. In the aftermath, President Franklin D. Roosevelt delivered a powerful address to Congress on December 8, 1941, famously referring to the day as “a date which will live in infamy.” His call for a declaration of war was quickly endorsed, marking the United States’ full engagement in World War II.
Under the theme “Forging Ahead,” this year’s ceremony highlighted not just the historical importance of Pearl Harbor but also the essential role of younger generations in remembering and honoring the legacy of that day. Among the attendees were only two remaining survivors of the attack, both in their centennial years: 104-year-old Ira “Ike” Schab Jr., who traveled from Portland, and 102-year-old Ken Stevens, representing the USS Whitney.
Regrettably, this year also marked the loss of several Pearl Harbor survivors. Lou Conter, the last known crew member of the USS Arizona, passed away in April 2024 at the age of 102. A special remembrance was held in his honor, acknowledging the bravery and sacrifice of veterans like him. Additionally, Herbert Elfring, another survivor, died at 102 in May, having narrowly escaped the devastation as a young serviceman just miles from the attack. Sterling Cale, also 102 at his passing in January, displayed remarkable courage by aiding in the recovery of bodies from the wreckage after the attack.
This yearly remembrance serves not only as a tribute to those who fought bravely but also as a call to foster understanding and continuity among future generations, ensuring that the lessons learned from Pearl Harbor are not forgotten.
In a hopeful note, the continued participation of younger generations at such commemorations signifies a collective commitment to preserve the memory of the past as well as the values of resilience and unity, fostering a culture of remembrance for years to come.