Pearl Harbor Survivor Shares Unforgettable Memories Ahead of 84th Anniversary Commemoration
As the 84th anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack approaches, survivor Ken Schubring, now 103 years old, reflects on his harrowing experiences. Schubring enlisted in the military at just 17 years old, feeling drawn to service. His duty culminated on the fateful morning of December 7, 1941, when he concluded a shift and proceeded to breakfast.
Pearl Harbor Attack: A Survivor’s Story
Shortly before 8 a.m., an explosion rattled the military bunkers. “Everyone rushed outside,” Schubring recounted during a Veterans Day ceremony at the National WWII Museum. As he emerged, he saw dive bombers filling the sky. “I hit the deck, crawled to a ditch nearby… and stayed there until the first wave had finished,” he recalled.
Remaining Survivors and the Importance of Remembrance
With only 13 Pearl Harbor survivors still alive today, Schubring’s memories are a vital reminder of that day. He expressed to CBS News that the attack remains unforgettable. His son, Ken Schubring Jr., emphasized the importance of remembering the sacrifices made on that day. “You can’t put a price on that. You can’t forget it,” he stated.
Honoring Veterans and Continuing the Legacy
In a recent event, Tennessee Senator Marsha Blackburn facilitated Schubring’s attendance at the WWII Museum ceremony. “It was a pleasure to help WWII Veteran and Pearl Harbor survivor Ken Schubring Sr. get to this ceremony so that he could be honored for all that he has sacrificed for our nation,” she remarked on X.
- December 7, 1941: Date of the Pearl Harbor attack.
- Ken Schubring: 103-year-old Pearl Harbor survivor.
- Only 13 survivors left: A testament to the passage of time and the importance of remembrance.
Lifelong Commitment to Service
Following Pearl Harbor, Schubring served as a flight engineer on B-29 bombers, conducting missions across the Pacific. He recalls the day he heard about Japan’s surrender while returning from a bombing raid over Osaka. “The radio announced Emperor Hirohito had asked for an armistice. The war was over,” he stated.
After leaving the military, Schubring dedicated himself to fighting for justice. He worked for racial school integration in Athens, Georgia, where he served as school board president. His son reflected on Schubring’s tenacity amid controversy, stating, “My dad never wavered.”
As we honor the legacy of Pearl Harbor and the brave individuals like Ken Schubring, it is crucial to remember their sacrifices and the impact of their experiences.
