Honoring the Legacy of Pearl Harbor Survivors: Warren Upton and Robert Fernandez Remembered
The twilight of the years marks the passing of two legendary figures from the era of World War II, as the nation mourns the deaths of Pearl Harbor survivors Warren "Red" Upton and Robert "Bob" Fernandez. With their departures, the remaining survivors diminish, leaving behind indelible legacies of bravery and resilience.
On December 25, 2024, Warren “Red” Upton, aged 105, passed away following a hospital stay for pneumonia, as reported by the Pacific Historic Parks, the nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the history of Pearl Harbor. Upton was not only the oldest living Pearl Harbor survivor but also the last remaining crew member of the USS Utah, which met tragic fate during the Japanese surprise attack on December 7, 1941, by torpedoes. Upton was serving aboard the Utah when it was struck; fifty-eight crew members tragically lost their lives during the assault.
Upton recalled feeling the attack's first torpedo strike as he prepared to shave aboard the USS Utah. "No one knew what made the ship shake until the second torpedo hit and sent the vessel capsizing," Upton said, vividly illustrating the intensity of the moment. With swift courage, he swam to safety, aiding another shipmate who struggled to reach the shore of Ford Island amid chaos.
Following the attack, Upton continued his service as a radioman throughout World War II and returned home to marry Gene, his wife, who preceded him in death three years earlier. His family remains at the heart of his legacy, emphasized by the loving atmosphere surrounding his final moments. Pacific Historic Parks announced his passing, sharing, "He passed away surrounded by his loving family," highlighting the impact he had on those around him.
Robert "Bob" Fernandez, another Pearl Harbor veteran, passed on December 11, 2024, at the age of 100. He spent his final moments surrounded by family, enjoying cherished memories of love and laughter. Known affectionately as "Uncle Bob," Fernandez served on the USS Curtiss during the infamous attack. Just weeks before his fading health forced him to move to his nephew's home, plans for travelling to attend the Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day were made, reflecting his dedication to honoring the past.
Having enlisted at 17 years old, Fernandez often recounted his experiences during the attack, sharing stories of the moments when Japanese planes flew close enough to see the pilot's face. He loaded ammunition, stood guard, and witnessed the horrors of war firsthand. “I never did get my liberty,” he recalled, speaking of plans for shore leave on the fateful day when history changed forever.
Despite the darkness of battle, Fernandez found joy and camaraderie among his fellow sailors, making friends wherever he went. His nephew, Joseph Guthrie, noted the magnetic personality Fernandez possessed, saying, "He never considered himself a hero, but he was treated like one." This sentiment embodies the phenomenon many veterans experience—a humble acknowledgment of their service amid society's admiration.
The pain of losing friends and fellow soldiers weighed heavily on both Upton and Fernandez. Upton expressed his sorrow at losing shipmates over the years, stating, "What upset him was losing his companions during the years." For both, camaraderie shared during their service forged lifelong bonds, underscoring the grave cost of war.
Historian J. Michael Wenger documented the scale of tragedy during Pearl Harbor, noting approximately 87,000 U.S. military personnel were stationed on Oahu on December 7, 1941, with over 2,400 service members and civilians dying by day’s end. With the passing of Upton and Fernandez, only fifteen Pearl Harbor survivors remain, marking the end of an era.
Tributes poured out for Upton and Fernandez, emphasizing the importance of commemorations. The U.S. commemorates the attack every year with memorial services, honoring the sacrifices made by their fellow Americans. The stories of these two men are not just personal victories but national testimonies of heroism and perseverance. Their deaths act as poignant reminders of the sacrifices made during times of war, enabling future generations to reflect on their heritage.
Family and friends have established arrangements to celebrate the lives of both Upton and Fernandez. Upton's funeral services are pending as the community rallies around. Similarly, plans for Fernandez’s memorial are set for January, ensuring his legacy remains etched within the hearts of those who knew him.
Both survivors lived long, fulfilling lives, reflecting not only on their experiences but also the resolutions they drew from their conflicts. "His courage and resilience have been an inspiration," shared Board of Supervisors Chairman Miguel Villapudua about the late Fernandez. Their stories remind us of the human spirit to endure and thrive—shining light through the darkest of times.
Upton and Fernandez will continue to be remembered not only for their time spent during World War II but also as beacons of the unyielding human spirit. Heroes of their era, their memories will endure with gratitude and respect as we honor their sacrifices.
