Oldest Pearl Harbor survivor is keeping memory of the surprise bombing alive at 106

Freeman Johnson, at 106, stands as the living emblem of Pearl Harbor memory as the United States' oldest surviving veteran. The Centerville, Massachusetts resident was below deck on the USS St. Louis repairing a steam boiler when the December 7, 1941 attack began and says he saw nothing of it from his position. As a fireman, he was focused on duties and recalls being unaware of the broader events until afterward. Johnson has become a reluctant public figure, visiting schools and marking milestones such as his 106th birthday with limited attention. He keeps photos, his dog tag, and medals at home as reminders of a day that shaped generations.

Survivors of Pearl Harbor have dwindled to about 11, with more than 2,400 troops killed on that day. Only two survivors attended Memorial Day ceremonies in Hawaii in 2024, underscoring the aging cohort. Johnson, who seldom sought the spotlight, has become a visible face of a pivotal World War II moment, even as many veterans avoid public attention. Memorial Day ceremonies at bases continue to honor survivors, and Johnson emphasizes the importance of passing memory to younger generations.