Warren Upton, the oldest known survivor of the 1941 Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, has died at the age of 105.
He was the last living survivor of the USS Utah, a battleship bombed during the surprise military strike by the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service on December 7, 1941, an attack that led the United States into World War II.
Born in 1918 in San Jose, California, Upton enlisted in the Navy at a young age and served at Pearl Harbor.
On the day of the attack, he was a radioman aboard the USS Utah. The ship was one of the first to be hit, and it capsized within minutes.
Upton escaped the wreckage and survived the attack, one of the most devastating assaults on American soil.
After World War II, Upton continued his service in the Navy and later retired with honors.
He often shared his experiences, participating in memorial services and events to honor those who lost their lives. His firsthand accounts provided valuable historical insights.
Upton’s passing marks the end of an era, as fewer Pearl Harbor survivors remain to share their stories. He died in Los Gatos, California, where he lived his later years.
Tributes poured in from across the nation, recognizing his service and the significance of his experiences.
The Pearl Harbor attack resulted in over 2,400 American deaths and significant damage to U.S. military assets, including the USS Utah, which was beyond repair.
This attack changed the course of history and propelled the United States into World War II.
As a decorated veteran, Upton’s courage and resilience left a lasting impact. He worked to ensure the memories of those who perished would not be forgotten, preserving their legacy through his accounts.
Upton’s passing serves as a reminder of the importance of remembering the sacrifices made by those who served during World War II.
