Survivors of Pearl Harbor reflect 75 years on

  • 2016-12-26
On December 7, 2016, people from San Diego, including survivors of the Pearl Harbor attack that took place 75 years ago to the day, gathered on the USS Midway to remember the events. Among them were veterans who were on active duty in Hawaii at the time.

Speaking to NBCSanDiego.com, Clayton Schenkelberg, 99, said he was stationed at the sub base when he heard the explosions. He said he ran to move explosives away from other people, and added that he could clearly see the pilot of one of the attacking planes.

Woody Derby, 98, was serving aboard the U.S.S. Nevada, which suffered damage from six bombs and a torpedo, but was raised and returned to active service. Derby remembers someone yelling “this is war,” and he and other crewmen went to the armory for weapons. He said almost everyone was scared, but did their jobs.

Another veteran, Gordon Jones, said the ceremony reminded him that many survivors have died. He said he felt lucky to still be alive, and went on to toss a wreath into the ocean to remember his fellow veterans. He said he and others had lost family and friends, and added “We don't ever want it to happen again.”

The surprise attacked is widely regarded to be what brought the United States into World War II. Events like this can be enhanced if organizers display Banners to honor participants.


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