In the annals of history, there are individuals whose stories not only bear witness to pivotal moments but also serve as a source of inspiration for generations to come. Herb Weatherwax, a Pearl Harbor survivor who lived from 1917 to 2016, was one such hero. As we remember and honor his life, let's delve into the remarkable journey of a man whose resilience, courage, and commitment to remembrance left an indelible mark on the narrative of the Pearl Harbor attack.
Herb Weatherwax, affectionately known as “Uncle Herb” around Hawaii, was born in 1917; he grew up in the midst of a changing world. Little did he know that his life would become intertwined with one of the most significant events of the 20th century. Herb, a native of Hilo, found himself joining the U.S. Army on June 6, 1941, after being drafted. He was then stationed at Schofield Barracks, where he became a member of the 298th Infantry Regiment.
The morning of December 7, 1941, changed the course of Herb's life and the world at large. Herb was enjoying a weekend break in Honolulu on the 7th of December, 1941, when he caught wind of a distressing update on the radio. The broadcast stated that Japanese forces had launched an attack on Pearl Harbor. Without hesitation, all military personnel were ordered to promptly report back to their assigned posts. As Herb made his way back to Schofield Barracks, he couldn't help but witness the ongoing chaos and devastation at Pearl Harbor and Wheeler Army Airfield. Upon their arrival at Schofield, the individuals underwent a transformation from their civilian attire to their official uniforms. Simultaneously, they were provided with their assigned weapons, after which they were escorted by a convoy to their designated locations in the field. The primary objective of the Army was to safeguard the island of Oahu from an anticipated Japanese ground invasion subsequent to the aerial assault. For several days, they maintained their positions while Oahu enforced a complete blackout, prohibiting the presence of any form of illumination beyond dusk. Amidst this darkness, the only source of light emanated from the USS Arizona, which continued to burn relentlessly for a period spanning two-and-a-half days.
Following the attack, Herb, along with his fellow survivors, faced the daunting task of rebuilding. The physical and emotional scars left by the events of December 7 lingered, but Herb's resilience stood out. He, like many other survivors, played a pivotal role in reconstructing not just the physical infrastructure but also the spirit of a nation thrust into war.
As the years passed, Herb Weatherwax became a tireless advocate for remembrance. Recognizing the importance of preserving the legacy of Pearl Harbor, he devoted his life to ensuring that the sacrifices made on that day were never forgotten. Herb often shared his experiences through oral histories, interviews, and public appearances, leaving an invaluable record for future generations. He wrote a book to convey his message and his story named “Counting My Blessings: The Autobiography of a Native Hawaiian Pearl Harbor Survivor”.
In 1996, Herb became a part of the volunteer program offered by the National Park Service. Through this program, he found great pleasure in recounting his war experiences to the visitors of the USS Arizona Memorial. Herb also took part in the videoconference program called "Witness to History," engaging with students from various corners of the globe.
According to Herb, it is the duty of Survivors to preserve the historical accounts until they are no longer here. He expressed his desire to continuously learn from others, hopeful that his own experiences could impart valuable knowledge to others.
One of Herb's most significant contributions was his involvement in the USS Arizona Memorial. As a volunteer at the memorial, he greeted visitors and shared his firsthand account of the attack. His presence and storytelling became synonymous with the memorial, and he became a living link to the past.
Uncle Herb passed away on Monday, Dec. 12, 2016. He was 99 years old. He attended the most recent 75th National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Commemoration Ceremony at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam on Dec. 7. According to his family, it was his final wish.
Herb Weatherwax's passing in 2016 marked the end of an era, but his legacy lives on. As we remember this remarkable man, we also recognize the responsibility to carry forward the torch of remembrance. The lessons learned from Herb's life go beyond the pages of history—they teach us about resilience, courage, and the enduring power of memory.
Herb Weatherwax's journey from the turmoil of Pearl Harbor to a life dedicated to remembrance is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. As we reflect on his legacy, let us renew our commitment to honoring the sacrifices of those who came before us. In remembering Herb Weatherwax, we not only pay homage to a hero but also embrace the responsibility of ensuring that the echoes of Pearl Harbor reverberate through the corridors of time.
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