military conflicts
tragic
impactful

Ira Schab, last Pearl Harbor survivor, dies at 105

Dec 21, 2025, 4:58 AM10
(Update: Dec 21, 2025, 4:58 AM)
harbor on the island of Oahu, Hawaii
ethnic group native to Japan

Ira Schab, last Pearl Harbor survivor, dies at 105

  • Ira 'Ike' Schab, a World War II Navy veteran and survivor of the Pearl Harbor attack, died recently at the age of 105.
  • He served in the Navy during the attack on December 7, 1941, and participated actively in defense efforts.
  • With his passing, the number of firsthand survivors of the Pearl Harbor attack continues to dwindle, emphasizing the importance of remembering their legacy.
Share opinion
Tip: Add insight, not just a reaction
1

Story

In December 2023, Ira 'Ike' Schab, a veteran of World War II and one of the remaining survivors of the Pearl Harbor attack, passed away at the age of 105. Schab was serving as a sailor in the Navy at the time of the attack on December 7, 1941, when he witnessed the Japanese bombing firsthand. He recalled his experiences of fear and confusion, as he and other sailors worked to defend their ship, quickly moving to gather and load ammunition for anti-aircraft guns. As a young man of just 21, Schab's life was forever altered by the events of that fateful day. During the war, he spent considerable time in the Pacific theater, including locations such as the New Hebrides, now Vanuatu, and later in battles around the Mariana Islands and Okinawa, Japan. Although he rarely spoke about his experiences for decades, he became increasingly active in sharing his story and honoring his fallen comrades as the number of survivors diminished over the years. Schab regularly attended annual commemorations in Hawaii, emphasizing the importance of remembering those who did not survive the attack. In 2023, he expressed his intention to honor those lost, reflecting a deep sense of responsibility towards his fellow servicemen and their sacrifices. However, this year Schab was unable to attend the ceremony due to health issues, and shortly after, he passed away, marking the loss of another significant voice from one of the most pivotal moments in American history. His death serves as a reminder of the importance of remembering the sacrifices made by those who defended the nation during World War II. At various ceremonies, he implored those present to honor not just the veterans still alive but also the memory of those who had died while serving. His call to remember illustrates a profound respect for the legacy of valor and duty embodied by the servicemen and women of his generation. Schab's life underscored the resilience and determination of the individuals involved in World War II, and his passing signifies a significant chapter closing in the history of the Pearl Harbor attacks. As we reflect on his story and the stories of countless others like him, it is incumbent upon current generations to continue honoring their memory and reflecting on the lessons learned from their sacrifices.

2026 All rights reserved