Warren Upton, the oldest living survivor of the 1941 Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and the last remaining survivor of the USS Utah, has passed away at the age of 105. Upton, who bravely endured the harrowing events of the infamous day that plunged the United States into World War II, breathed his last breath in a hospital in Los Gatos, California, after battling pneumonia. Kathleen Farley, the California state chair of the Sons and Daughters of Pearl Harbor Survivors, confirmed his passing.
A Hero’s Journey
During the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, the USS Utah battleship was among the vessels targeted by Japanese planes. Recalling the terrifying moment, Upton revealed that he was about to shave when the first torpedo struck the Utah, causing confusion and chaos among the crew. The subsequent torpedo hits led to the ship listing and capsizing, forcing Upton and his fellow sailors to fight for survival.
A Tale of Resilience
At just 22 years old, Upton displayed remarkable courage as he swam ashore to Ford Island, seeking refuge from the relentless Japanese assault. Taking cover in a trench to evade enemy fire, he waited anxiously until rescue arrived in the form of a truck that transported him to safety. Despite the trauma of that fateful day, Upton remained resolute in sharing his experiences, though the loss of his shipmates over the years weighed heavily on his heart.
A Legacy Remembered
With Upton’s passing, the dwindling number of Pearl Harbor survivors serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by thousands of military personnel on Oahu during the attack. Military historian J. Michael Wenger’s estimate of just 15 survivors remaining underscores the diminishing presence of those who bore witness to history. Warren Upton’s indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication to preserving the memory of Pearl Harbor will forever be etched in the annals of American history.
As we bid farewell to a true American hero, let us honor Warren Upton’s legacy by cherishing the bravery and resilience he exemplified in the face of adversity. May his courage inspire future generations to uphold the values of courage, sacrifice, and remembrance that define our nation’s history.
