Warren “Red” Upton, a cherished link to the harrowing events of Pearl Harbor, passed away on Christmas Day at the age of 105.
Known as the last surviving crew member of the USS Utah—a battleship tragically lost during the attack—his death is a poignant moment in the ongoing remembrance of that critical chapter in American history.
Upton’s Last Days
Pacific Historic Parks announced the news of Upton’s passing through a touching statement on Facebook.
Just before he died, Upton had been hospitalized and was surrounded by his loving family.
Before his death, Upton was among the fewer than 20 Pearl Harbor survivors.
His passing leaves only 15, according to the Sons and Daughters of Pearl Harbor Survivors.
The Attack on Pearl Harbor
On December 7, 1941, a young Upton, then a 22-year-old petty officer, was just beginning his day below deck, setting out to shave aboard the USS Utah.
The ship, stationed off Ford Island, served as a training vessel for anti-aircraft units.
In mere moments, chaos erupted as the vessel was struck by Japanese torpedoes.
It took on water rapidly, leaning dangerously before succumbing to the depths in a matter of minutes.
Reflecting on that fateful day, Upton recounted the chaos and intensity of the attack.
He vividly recalled the enemy fire raining down around him as he sought an escape route.
As the ship capsized, he slid down its hull and plunged into the water, where he bravely helped a fellow sailor who couldn’t swim, guiding him to safety onshore.
Legacy and Remembrance
The USS Utah suffered greatly; 58 crew members lost their lives in the attack, contributing to a grim total of 2,403 casualties at Pearl Harbor.
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency remains dedicated to identifying and recovering the remains of those who perished.
They made significant progress in 2021 by identifying all the remains associated with the USS Oklahoma after a meticulous investigation.
Upton continued to serve in the Navy throughout World War II, later taking on the vital role of radioman.
Just this past October, he celebrated an incredible 105th birthday, making him the oldest known survivor of the Pearl Harbor attack.
Today, the USS Utah partially rests beneath the waters of Pearl Harbor, standing as a solemn memorial to that historic day.
When the U.S. Navy held its annual memorial event earlier this month, only two remaining survivors could return to Pearl Harbor.
This stark reality underscores the dwindling number of firsthand witnesses to these significant and somber moments in history.
Source: Taskandpurpose.com