The day of December 7, 1941, started like any other Sunday morning for sailors stationed at Pearl Harbor, only to transform dramatically when Japanese forces launched their surprise attack, marking one of the pivotal moments in American history. Sailors on the USS Arizona, USS West Virginia, and other military ships were preparing for church services and leisure activities when torpedo planes and bombers struck, leading to chaos and devastation.
Admiral Chester W. Nimitz described the bond formed among those who fought and perished: "They fought together as brothers in arms; they died together and now they sleep side by side..." This event resulted in 2,390 American deaths and injured nearly 1,000 others. Although the attack was devastating, it did not obliterate the U.S. Pacific fleet, setting the stage for America's entry to World War II.
The attack lasted nearly two hours, with Japan's strategy aimed at crippling American naval power. Yet, the resilience demonstrated by the U.S. military would soon emerge, igniting the passion for fight-back among American forces. President Franklin D. Roosevelt famously called December 7 "a day of infamy" when he addressed Congress the following day, advocating for war against Japan.
More than 80 years have passed since the events of Pearl Harbor, but the memory remains strong, particularly on National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, which was designated by Congress in 1994. Memorial events at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial serve as poignant reminders of the lives lost and the unified response of the country to the attack. Despite the time elapsed, the sentiment around December 7 compels Americans to reflect on the sacrifices military personnel and their families make daily.
One of the last known survivors, Robert Louie Fernandez, who recently passed away at 100, shared vivid memories of the day. Born in 1924, Mr. Fernandez enlisted in the U.S. Navy just months before the attack. He served aboard the USS Curtiss, which was stationed at Pearl Harbor, and was present during the destruction and chaos.
Reflecting on the events of the day, Fernandez recalled, "What did I do? I got caught in a war." His account emphasized the shock of the attack, with many sailors initially uncertain of the situation. Japan bombed the USS Curtiss multiple times, resulting in injuries and fatalities among U.S. personnel.
Before the assault began, Fernandez had anticipated going out dancing later, but instead found himself manning his battle station amid the chaos. “You just do what you’re told to do and do the best you can,” he remarked. His recollections remind us of the human aspect of war—how unexpected moments can transform life goals and plans.
Fernandez was known not only for his service but also for his effervescent personality. His nephew, Joe Guthrie, explained how he became Fernandez’s caretaker when his uncle was diagnosed with dementia. “I promised him 10 years ago... he died loved and happy,” Guthrie shared, emphasizing the strong bond they shared and the joy Fernandez continued to bring to those around him.
Even as the number of Pearl Harbor survivors dwindles, efforts to honor their legacy continue. The Pearl Harbor Survivors Association experienced disbandment due to low membership, and only about 16 service members reportedly remain alive. Fernandez was regarded among those who shared stories of resilience, sacrifice, and the importance of remembering the war's past.
The lessons from Pearl Harbor extend beyond the military. They invoke gratitude among citizens toward those who protect the nation. The account of many veterans reminds Americans to cherish freedom and recognize the sacrifices made to secure it. Ted Guthrie, another nephew of Fernandez, encapsulated this sentiment when he expressed, “I would love Americans to love America like my Uncle Bob did.”
This month, we not only honor those lost on December 7, 1941, but we reaffirm our commitment to remembering their sacrifices and learning from history. Pearl Harbor stands as a reminder of the resilience of the American spirit and the deep bonds formed during even the most challenging times.
Reflecting on this significant day reminds us of our shared duty: to support and appreciate those who serve, ensuring their sacrifices are not forgotten. Each remembrance of Pearl Harbor helps solidify America's values and tributes to the lives interwoven within our nation’s narrative.
