Remembering Pearl Harbor: A Day of Valor and Sacrifice
As December 7th approaches, a somber atmosphere blankets the historic city of Honolulu, Hawaii. This date will mark the 83rd anniversary of the tragic attacks on Pearl Harbor in 1941—an event forever etched into the hearts and minds of Americans. This year, however, there is a special resonance as we reflect on the bravery of those who stood up and fought back against the onslaught of Japanese warplanes.
A Young Sailor’s Courage
Among those who responded to the tragedy that day was a brave young man named Earl “Chuck” Kohler. Only 17 years old at the time, he was just a Minnesota farm boy when his life took a dramatic turn. As the sound of bombs shattered the morning peace, instead of following orders to take cover, Kohler made a life-defining choice—he stood up to fight. He recalled, “I’m going to want my family and my country to know I died fighting, not hiding.”
Writing a letter to his mother in the midst of the chaos, Kohler witnessed history unfold before him as he scrambled to grab ammunition and stand against the second wave of attackers. His resolve illustrated a fierce spirit, as he recalled feeling “scared” but deeply driven by a sense of duty.
The Day of Infamy
On that fateful morning, the serene waters of Pearl Harbor turned into a scene of utter devastation. Over 353 Japanese aircraft swooped in, signaling the start of a brutal assault that claimed the lives of 2,403 Americans and left the US Pacific Fleet in tatters. Battleships, once symbols of strength, were fiercely assaulted, leading to unimaginable destruction.
The wreckage was such that Kohler reflected on the horror he witnessed—the ships capsizing, the flames consuming everything in their path, and the tragic loss of life as bodies drifted in the oily water. Despite the overwhelming chaos and confusion, he made a choice that would define his generation’s legacy: to fight back.
Join Us in Remembering
This Saturday, thousands will gather once again along the shores of Pearl Harbor to honor those valiant souls who fought with unwavering perseverance. With a heartfelt motto of “Lest We Forget,” survivors, families, and community members will gather to pay tribute not only to the brave individuals who served but also to the sacrifices made by their families. They will remember the estimated 87,000 active military members stationed on Oahu that fateful day.
Among those expected to attend the commemoration are a couple of fellow survivors, Ken Stevens and Ira “Ike” Schab Jr. Schab, who at 104 years old, has chosen to attend, honoring those who cannot. It’s a reminder of the resilience and camaraderie of the Greatest Generation that fought through the trials of World War II.
A Beacon of Hope
Interestingly, Kohler won’t be in Hawaii this year, but will instead participate in a memorial in California. He plans to light the Beacon on Mount Diablo, a tribute that honors those who served. Initially extinguished during the wartime blackout, the Beacon was lit again years later as a symbol of hope and remembrance.
As Kohler notes, “If I am to be considered a representative of people of my generation… I hope I have done it in a way that will have made them proud.” His words remind us that as we remember Pearl Harbor, we not only recall the tragedies but also the indomitable spirit of those who chose to defend their home.
Reflecting on Legacy
For many, Pearl Harbor was not only a tragedy but a turning point that united a nation. As we look back on this day, it’s imperative to remember that true courage often comes in the face of fear. We continue to carry forward the stories of those brave men and women who served, and we remember them with pride. “May those who have gone before us, fair winds and following seas,” Kohler reflects, summing up the spirit that embraces so many in this hallowed remembrance.
This December, let’s honor not just the anniversary of Pearl Harbor but the enduring spirit of resilience that lives on in every corner of America. Let’s remember those like Kohler, whose bravery and determination refuse to be forgotten.
