What's happened
William Schab, a Pearl Harbor survivor and Navy veteran, died at age 105 in Oregon. He was among the last few survivors of the 1941 attack, which led the U.S. into World War II. Schab served in the Pacific and later worked on the Apollo moon program.
What's behind the headline?
Schab's death marks the passing of one of the last living witnesses of Pearl Harbor, a pivotal event that propelled the U.S. into World War II. His active participation in the attack and subsequent military service exemplify the enduring legacy of that day. The dwindling number of survivors underscores the importance of remembrance, as each passing diminishes the direct personal connection to history. Schab's later work on the Apollo program highlights the trajectory of American technological and military achievement, linking WWII veterans to the space age. His story emphasizes the importance of honoring veterans and preserving their memories, especially as the survivor cohort shrinks. The annual commemorations he attended serve as vital reminders of the sacrifices made and the historical significance of Pearl Harbor.
What the papers say
The New York Post reports that Schab was 105 and died at home in Oregon, with only about a dozen survivors remaining of the Pearl Harbor attack. The Independent highlights his rare speaking about the attack and his efforts to honor fallen comrades. AP News confirms his death at age 105, noting his service in the Pacific and his post-war career in aerospace engineering. All sources emphasize his role as a last living link to a defining moment in American history, with consistent details about his background and dedication to remembrance.
How we got here
William Schab was born in Chicago on July 4, 1920, and joined the Navy at 18 following his father's footsteps. He was aboard the USS Dobbin during the Pearl Harbor attack, where he helped operate anti-aircraft guns. After the war, he studied aerospace engineering and contributed to the Apollo space program. In recent years, he traveled to Hawaii annually to honor fellow survivors and those who served at Pearl Harbor.
Go deeper
Common question
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Who Was William Schab and Why Is He Remembered as a Pearl Harbor Survivor?
William Schab was one of the last living survivors of the Pearl Harbor attack, a pivotal moment in American history. His story offers a personal glimpse into the events of December 7, 1941, and highlights the importance of remembering those who served. Many wonder about the lives of these survivors, their roles during WWII, and why their stories remain vital today. Below, we explore these questions and more about Pearl Harbor and its last witnesses.
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