Two Pearl Harbor Survivors, Ages 104 and 102, Return to Hawaii to Honor the Fallen

On December 7, 2023, two Pearl Harbor survivors, Edwin Covert, aged 104, and Duane Matlock, aged 102, made an emotional return to Hawaii to commemorate the 82nd anniversary of the infamous attack. Their presence served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made and the unwavering resilience of those who lived through that fateful day.

A Return to Sacred Ground

For Covert and Matlock, the journey back to Pearl Harbor was a deeply moving experience. They were greeted with heartfelt applause, tears of gratitude, and expressions of appreciation from fellow veterans, historians, and members of the public. The two men, frail yet dignified, stood shoulder-to-shoulder, their stooped bodies bearing witness to the passage of time and the weight of history.

As they navigated the hallowed halls of the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, they paused at various exhibits, their eyes scanning photographs and artifacts that captured the horrors of that day. They shared their memories with visitors, recounting their experiences with remarkable clarity and unwavering detail.

Personal Reflections on a Day That Changed History

Edwin Covert

Covert, a former Navy sailor, recalled the harrowing moments when Japanese torpedo planes descended upon Pearl Harbor. “It was chaos, pure chaos,” he said, his voice trembling slightly. “We were sitting in our barracks, playing cards, when the sirens went off. We scrambled to our guns, but it was too late.” Covert survived the attack but witnessed the tragic loss of many of his comrades.

Duane Matlock

Matlock, who served as an Army private, was stationed at Schofield Barracks on the island of Oahu. He described the surreal experience of seeing Japanese airplanes flying low over the base, dropping bombs on military installations. “We were stunned, we couldn’t believe our eyes,” he said. “We had never imagined that we would be attacked on our own soil.” Matlock spent the following days helping to clear debris and assisting the injured.

The Importance of Remembrance

The return of Covert and Matlock to Pearl Harbor underscored the crucial importance of preserving the memory of the attack. Their stories serve as a living testament to the courage, sacrifice, and indomitable spirit of the American people during a time of great adversity.

As the years pass, it is easy to forget the horrors of war and the sacrifices made by those who fought for our freedom. The presence of these two venerable survivors reminded us of the fragility of peace and the need to honor those who have fallen in defense of our nation.

Broader Implications

The return of the Pearl Harbor survivors to Hawaii has far-reaching implications beyond the commemoration of the attack itself. It is a timely reminder of the importance of:

• Historical Preservation: Preserving the stories and artifacts of the past is essential for understanding our present and shaping our future.
• Patriotic Education: The sacrifices of our veterans should be taught in schools and celebrated in communities to inspire future generations.
• International Diplomacy: Remembering the horrors of war can help prevent future conflicts and promote peace and understanding among nations.

Conclusion

The return of Edwin Covert and Duane Matlock to Pearl Harbor was a deeply moving and significant event. Their presence served as a vital reminder of the sacrifices made by those who lived through the attack and the importance of preserving the memory of that tragic day. Their stories are a testament to the indomitable spirit of the American people and a call to action for us all to strive for peace and to honor the legacy of those who have fallen.