A decorated World War II veteran who witnessed one of America's most pivotal moments in history takes his final breath.
According to AP News, Harry Chandler, a Navy medic who heroically rescued injured sailors during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, passed away on Monday at a senior living facility in Tequesta, Florida, at the remarkable age of 103.
Chandler's death marks the latest loss among the dwindling number of Pearl Harbor survivors, as he becomes the third veteran to pass away in recent weeks. His death occurred due to congestive heart failure, though medical professionals emphasized his advanced age as a contributing factor.
On the morning of December 7, 1941, Chandler was performing his routine duty of raising the flag at a mobile hospital in Aiea Heights when Japanese fighter planes appeared in the sky. Initially mistaking them for American aircraft, he quickly realized the gravity of the situation as bombs began falling on the naval base below.
As chaos erupted, Chandler and his unit immediately sprang into action, boarding trucks to reach the wounded. Despite the overwhelming danger, he joined rescue efforts by boat, pulling injured sailors from the oil-slicked waters of Pearl Harbor.
Chandler shared his recollections with The Associated Press during the 82nd anniversary commemoration in 2023, where he said:
I thought they were planes coming in from the states until I saw the bombs dropping. I was afraid that they'd start strafing.
After his wartime service, Chandler built a successful civilian life while maintaining his military connections.
He established himself as a painter and wallpaper hanger, later partnering with his brother to operate an upholstery business. His commitment to service continued through his involvement in the Navy reserves, where he achieved the rank of senior chief before retiring in 1981.
Born in Holyoke, Massachusetts, Chandler spent most of his life in nearby South Hadley. His personal life was marked by achievement and devotion to family, including shooting five hole-in-ones during his golfing career. He leaves behind a large family legacy, including two daughters, nine grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren.
With Chandler's passing, military historian J. Michael Wenger notes that only 15 survivors remain from the estimated 87,000 military personnel present on Oahu during the attack. The recent deaths of fellow survivors Bob Fernandez, 100, and Warren Upton, 105, further diminish this historic group.
Harry Chandler's death represents more than the loss of a decorated veteran - it marks the gradual fading of living memory from one of America's most significant historical events.
His passing at 103, following a life of service both during and after World War II, reminds us of the diminishing number of Pearl Harbor survivors, now down to just 15 individuals.
The heroic actions of Chandler and his fellow servicemen during the Japanese attack helped shape the course of World War II and American history, while his post-war contributions continued to demonstrate the resilience and dedication of his generation.
