(DailyChive.com) – Warren Upton, the last USS Utah survivor from the Pearl Harbor attack, has passed away at 105, marking the end of an era.
At a Glance
- Warren Upton, the oldest Pearl Harbor survivor, dies at 105.
- He passed away due to pneumonia in Los Gatos, California.
- The USS Utah was among the battleships attacked on December 7, 1941.
- Upton escaped and survived the attack, witnessing the historic event unfold.
Remembering Warren Upton’s Legacy
Warren Upton, the last living survivor of the USS Utah during the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack, died at 105 in Los Gatos, California. His passing signifies the loss of a direct connection to the event that propelled the United States into World War II. At the time of the attack, Upton was a 22-year-old petty officer. The USS Utah, the battleship moored at Pearl Harbor, capsized after being hit by torpedoes.
On that fateful morning, Upton was preparing to shave when the first torpedo struck, he recounted.
I love the old picture of him! Pearl Harbor survivor Warren Upton, last of USS Utah crew, has died https://t.co/JTImdKYVKx
— MichelleCharlesworth (@mcharlesworth7) December 29, 2024
A Heroic Escape
As the Utah began to sink, Upton slid down the side of the ship and swam to Ford Island. He took cover in a trench, avoiding enemy planes until he was rescued. “It was quite an inferno […] they were strafing us still,” Upton described the scene during an interview.
Post-war, Upton continued to serve in the Navy as a radioman throughout World War II. He often shared his experiences, honoring the memories of his fallen shipmates while maintaining a sense of humor and humility. Upton remained an active member of the USS Utah and Pearl Harbor survivor communities.
Warren “Red” Upton, the last surviving veteran of the battleship USS Utah, died on Christmas Day.https://t.co/2rObmjb9fq
— Stars and Stripes (@starsandstripes) December 29, 2024
A Legacy of Sacrifice and Honor
President Biden recognized Upton’s unwavering courage and patriotism. The significance of Pearl Harbor extends beyond battlefields, influencing generations committed to preserving peace and democracy. Tributes like Pacific Historic Parks’ statement emphasize the importance of remembering and honoring these veterans.
Among roughly 87,000 personnel present during the attack, only 15 survive after Upton’s departure. His story serves as a reminder of the resilience and dedication that defined his generation. The nation owes a deep debt to veterans like Warren Upton for their service and sacrifice.
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