Harry Chandler, a Navy medic who participated in the rescue efforts after the 1941 Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, has passed away at the age of 103. Chandler, who had congestive heart failure, was one of the few remaining Pearl Harbor survivors. As a hospital corpsman 3rd class, he was on duty on the morning of the attack and witnessed the Japanese fighter planes dropping bombs on the battleships in the harbor, ultimately leading to the U.S. entering World War II. Despite the chaos and danger, Chandler remained focused on rescuing injured sailors and helping them out of the oily waters caused by the exploding ships.
Chandler’s courage and dedication to his duty during the Pearl Harbor attack were evident as he worked tirelessly to save the wounded sailors and Marines. His memories of the horrific events came rushing back when he visited Pearl Harbor for a ceremony commemorating the anniversary of the bombing. He emphasized the importance of being prepared and highlighted the need for better intelligence to prevent such attacks from happening in the future. Chandler’s legacy as a hero and survivor of one of the most infamous events in American history will be remembered by all those who knew him.
After the war, Chandler continued to lead a fulfilling life, working in various professions and eventually retiring as a senior chief in the Navy reserves in 1981. He was an avid golfer, known for his impressive five hole-in-one shots during his lifetime. Chandler was married twice and had three daughters, two biological and two adopted, along with multiple grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. His resilience and strength in the face of adversity serve as an inspiration to all who knew him.
With Chandler’s passing, the number of living Pearl Harbor survivors has dwindled significantly, with only 15 still alive out of approximately 87,000 military personnel present on the island of Oahu during the attack. The dwindling number of survivors serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served during that fateful day in history. Chandler’s contribution to the rescue efforts and his unwavering commitment to duty will forever be remembered as a testament to the bravery and resilience of the men and women who served at Pearl Harbor.
The recent deaths of other Pearl Harbor survivors, including Bob Fernandez and Warren Upton, further underscore the importance of honoring the memory of those who served during the attack. As the nation reflects on the legacy of those who were present at Pearl Harbor, it serves as a reminder of the need to preserve their stories and ensure that future generations understand the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom. Harry Chandler’s passing marks the end of an era, but his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him and in the annals of history.
