A ceremony held on Saturday at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial marked the 83rd anniversary of the historic attack on Pearl Harbor. Attendees observed a moment of silence at 7:55 a.m., the exact time when the attack began, and a missing man flyover followed to honor those lost.
On December 7, 1941, the U.S. naval base was struck by 350 Japanese aircraft, resulting in the deaths of 2,403 American citizens and inflicting significant damage to the U.S. Pacific Fleet. The day after the attack, President Franklin D. Roosevelt addressed Congress, seeking a declaration of war and famously stating that December 7 would “live in infamy.” This pivotal moment propelled the United States into World War II.
This year’s ceremony carried the theme “Forging Ahead,” highlighting the importance of honoring and preserving the legacy of the event through the contributions of younger generations. Nikki Stratton, the keynote speaker, shared the story of her grandfather, Donald Stratton, a survivor of the USS Arizona, who passed away in 2020 at the age of 97. Stratton recounted her grandfather’s harrowing experience during the raid, showcasing the resilience and heroism of those who served.
Among the attendees, only two survivors were present. Ira “Ike” Schab Jr., now 104, flew in from Portland to partake in the memorial service. He reflected on the emotional impact of that day, recalling his fear of not surviving the attack. Another survivor, Ken Stevens, 102 years old and a member of the USS Whitney, also attended the ceremony.
As the nation remembers the tragic events of Pearl Harbor, it is also important to acknowledge the loss of survivors. Earlier this year, Lou Conter, the last known crew member of the USS Arizona, passed away at the age of 102. In addition, other survivors, such as Herbert Elfring and Sterling Cale, also recently departed, leaving behind legacies of courage and sacrifice.
This commemoration serves as a poignant reminder of the bravery of those who fought and the enduring importance of preserving their stories for future generations. It emphasizes a collective commitment to remember not only the past but also the values of resilience and unity that arise in the face of adversity.