A World War II veteran who witnessed one of America's most pivotal moments in history has passed away in Lexington, Kentucky.
According to NewsNation, Vaughn P. Drake Jr., believed to be the oldest known U.S. survivor of the Pearl Harbor attack, died on April 7 at the age of 106.
Drake, born in Winchester, Kentucky on November 6, 1918, was serving with the Army Corps of Engineers on Oahu when Japanese forces launched their surprise attack on December 7, 1941.
He was heading to breakfast when enemy planes appeared overhead, marking the beginning of America's direct involvement in World War II.
Distinguished military service and engineering career
Drake's military service extended beyond Pearl Harbor to include combat operations in Saipan during World War II. His engineering expertise proved invaluable during his time in service, where he was responsible for constructing barracks on Oahu's eastern edge.
After returning from war, Drake embarked on a five-decade career in engineering. His contributions to Kentucky's infrastructure development were significant, particularly in the post-war era when he designed and installed underground telephone conduits across Lexington, Morehead, and Ashland.
The decorated veteran maintained strong ties to his community until his retirement in 1981. He was honored with membership in the prestigious Order of Kentucky Colonels and received recognition through the Mayor's Spirit of Lexington Award.
Dwindling number of Pearl Harbor survivors
The passing of Drake highlights the rapidly diminishing number of Pearl Harbor attack survivors. Current estimates indicate only about a dozen witnesses to the historic event remain alive today.
Recent months have seen the loss of several notable Pearl Harbor survivors. Lou Conter, the last surviving crew member of the USS Arizona, died at 102. Richard C. Higgins, a former radioman, passed away at the same age.
The end of 2024 marked the deaths of Warren Upton, the USS Utah's final survivor, at 105, and Harry Chandler, a Navy medic who treated wounded soldiers during the attack.
Legacy lives on through future generations
Drake's lasting impact extends beyond his military service and professional achievements. He maintained lifelong memberships with both the University of Kentucky Alumni Association and the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association.
His family legacy continues through his surviving son, two grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. The community will gather to honor Drake's memory at Milward Funeral Directors on April 17.
These deaths represent more than just the passing of individuals; they mark the gradual disappearance of firsthand witnesses to one of America's most significant historical events. Drake's death at 106 underscores the importance of preserving these veterans' stories for future generations to understand and remember the impact of Pearl Harbor on American history.
