The nation mourns the passing of Warren Upton, the oldest living survivor of the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor and the last surviving crew member of the USS Utah. Upton passed away on December 25, 2024, at the age of 105 in a Los Gatos, California hospital due to complications from pneumonia. His death marks the end of an era, symbolizing the sacrifices of a generation that fought to preserve freedom during World War II.
A Life Defined by Service and Resilience
Born in 1919 in San Jose, California, Upton enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1938. He served as a radioman aboard the USS Utah, a ship that played a critical role in training anti-aircraft gunners. On the fateful morning of December 7, 1941, the USS Utah was among the first ships struck during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Torpedoes tore through its hull, causing the vessel to capsize within minutes.
Upton, just 22 years old at the time, demonstrated extraordinary courage and quick thinking. As the ship sank, he swam to Ford Island, helping a fellow sailor who couldn’t swim make it to safety. Tragically, 58 of his crewmates aboard the Utah were killed in the attack.
Post-War Life and Legacy
Following his service in World War II, Upton returned home and married his wife, Gene, with whom he shared over 70 years of marriage until her passing in 2018. Together, they raised two children and settled in California, where Upton worked as an engineer and later dedicated his retirement years to public service and education.
Throughout his life, Upton remained committed to ensuring that the memories of Pearl Harbor and its lessons were not forgotten. He frequently attended memorial events at Pearl Harbor, often speaking to younger generations about the importance of understanding history, resilience, and patriotism.
“Warren was a living reminder of what the Greatest Generation stood for,” said J. Michael Wenger, a military historian specializing in World War II. “His willingness to share his story ensured that future generations would understand the sacrifices made on that December morning.”
The Legacy of the USS Utah and Pearl Harbor Survivors
The USS Utah remains submerged off the shores of Ford Island, a solemn memorial to the sailors who perished. The site is less visited than the USS Arizona Memorial but holds deep significance for survivors and their families. Upton was one of the most vocal advocates for preserving the memory of the Utah’s crew.
According to the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association, fewer than 15 veterans who were present at Pearl Harbor are alive today. Upton’s passing highlights the urgency of recording and preserving the experiences of these individuals, whose firsthand accounts offer invaluable insights into one of the most pivotal moments in American history.
Reflections on a Life Well Lived
Upton’s family described him as a humble man who often downplayed his heroism. “He never saw himself as a hero,” said his grandson, Mark Upton. “He just did what needed to be done. But to us and to the nation, he was a symbol of courage and sacrifice.”
In his later years, Upton was a frequent guest at military ceremonies and school events, where he shared his story to inspire others. His favorite saying, as recalled by his family, was, “The past teaches us who we are, but it’s up to us to shape the future.”
A National Tribute
Warren Upton’s passing has drawn tributes from across the country, including a statement from President-elect Donald Trump, who called Upton “a true American hero whose legacy will endure in the hearts of all who value freedom.”
A memorial service is planned in Los Gatos, with the Navy expected to provide full military honors. Upton’s ashes will be scattered at Pearl Harbor, fulfilling his final wish to rest with his fallen comrades aboard the USS Utah.
A Lasting Impact
Upton’s life is a testament to the bravery and resilience of the Greatest Generation. As the nation reflects on his contributions, his story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made to uphold the freedoms we enjoy today.
With his passing, the responsibility now falls to younger generations to honor and preserve the legacy of those who fought in World War II. Warren Upton may be gone, but his memory will live on as a symbol of courage, humility, and an unwavering commitment to service.
Sources:
- The Gateway Pundit: Warren Upton, Oldest Living Pearl Harbor Survivor, Dies at 105
- AP News: Last Living USS Utah Survivor Passes Away
- Military History Journal: Pearl Harbor Survivors and Their Legacy
#RIP Pearl Harbor survivor Warren "Red" Upton who passed away on Christmas Day at the age of 105. Upton was a radioman aboard USS Utah when the battleship was hit by two torpedoes on 7 December 1941. As the Utah began to roll over, he abandoned ship and swam to Ford Island,… pic.twitter.com/IQApqMRD9Z
— U.S. Naval Institute (@NavalInstitute) December 26, 2024
