A commemorative ceremony took place on Saturday at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, marking the 83rd anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack that occurred on December 7, 1941. At 7:55 a.m., the exact moment the assault began, attendees observed a moment of silence, followed by a poignant missing man flyover.
This historic attack involved 350 Japanese aircraft that devastated the U.S. naval base, resulting in the loss of 2,403 American lives and significant damage to the Pacific Fleet. The day after the attack, President Franklin D. Roosevelt addressed Congress, famously calling December 7, 1941, “a date which will live in infamy,” and sought a declaration of war, leading to America’s entry into World War II.
This year’s ceremony centered on the theme “Forging Ahead,” highlighting the importance of remembering this pivotal moment in history while also engaging the younger generation in the preservation of its legacy. The keynote address was delivered by Nikki Stratton, whose grandfather, Donald Stratton, was a survivor of the USS Arizona, where he showed extraordinary courage despite his severe injuries during the assault.
Only two survivors were present this year, including 104-year-old Ira “Ike” Schab Jr., the sole remaining member from the USS Dobbin, who recalled his feelings of fear and uncertainty during the attack. Another survivor, 102-year-old Ken Stevens, who served on the USS Whitney, also attended the event.
This year’s observance came with a twinge of sadness as notable survivors, such as Lou Conter, who passed away earlier this year, were honored posthumously for their sacrifices and bravery during the attack.
The ceremony offered both remembrance and inspiration, uniting generations to honor the resilience and spirit of those who endured one of the most significant events in American history. It serves as a reminder that the stories and legacies of heroes live on through the memories we preserve and the lessons we teach future generations.
In conclusion, while attending the ceremony is essential for honoring the past, it also represents a hopeful continuation of remembering and learning from history, as younger generations step forward to carry the torch of remembrance.