The number of American servicemembers who survived the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 is dwindling. The New York Times reports the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association plans to disband December 31st because of the rapidly declining number of survivors.
Despite their shrinking ranks, Defense Secretary Leon Panetta made a point to send a strong message to Pearl Harbor survivors about the unforgettable place they hold in American history:
We treasure you. You have brought everlasting credit to your fallen comrades. The men and women in today’s military stand on the shoulders of your individual and combined sacrifice and service to our nation. Your example inspires those in uniform today, strengthens our nation’s moral fiber, and proves that with united resolve our country can surmount any challenge.
One of the oldest Pearl Harbor survivors is Raymond Chavez of Poway. The 99-year-old told KGTV he plans to be in Pearl Harbor today to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the attack.
KPBS journalist Dwane Brown recently sat down to speak with Chavez. Take a look:
Interview with Pearl Harbor Survivor Living in San Diego (Video)
