Laid to Rest: Burials After the Battle highlights a poignant chapter of history that continues to touch lives even after 75 years. Although the infamous attack on Pearl Harbor has become a distant memory, some of the brave souls who perished that day are only now being properly identified and honored. One such story is that of Walter Henry Sollie, a young sailor aboard the USS Oklahoma who vanished amidst the chaos of war. His fate was a mystery, and like many others, his remains were classified as Killed in Action, their final resting place unknown for decades.

Walter Henry Sollie’s tale offers a beacon of hope to families of other lost heroes. Nearly 75 years after the attack, the Defense Department’s persistent efforts to identify these remains brought Sollie’s story full circle. Through modern DNA analysis, his remains were positively identified and finally returned to his family, giving him the dignified burial he deserved.

Walter Sollie is not alone in this journey of rediscovery. Navy Chief Petty Officer Albert Eugene Hayden was also among those who found a proper resting place decades later. In 2016, Hayden’s remains were identified and laid to rest in St. Mary’s County, Maryland, next to his parents. Like Sollie, he had been aboard the USS Oklahoma, where he perished alongside hundreds of shipmates during the devastating attack on December 7, 1941.

Another moving story is that of John Charles England. A courageous sailor aboard the USS Oklahoma, England made multiple trips back into the sinking ship to rescue his comrades. Tragically, he never returned from his final attempt to save others. In 2016, his remains, too, were identified and finally honored after decades of anonymity.

The Defense Department’s initiative to identify the remains of fallen servicemen has brought closure to many families. Gravesites previously marked as “Unknown” are now being exhumed, and advanced forensic technology is helping give names back to these unsung heroes. The program’s ongoing efforts have already revealed the identities of numerous Pearl Harbor casualties, shedding light on their sacrifices and providing long-overdue recognition.

To truly appreciate the legacy of these heroes, consider visiting the World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument at Pearl Harbor. This historic site offers a deep dive into the events of December 7, 1941, showcasing the bravery and tragedy of that day.

Explore the Battleship Missouri, stand above the sunken USS Arizona, and pay your respects at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, where countless World War II soldiers have been laid to rest. Each of these memorials serves as a lasting tribute to the courage and sacrifice of those who gave their lives for freedom.

As the Defense Department continues its mission, the stories of heroes like Sollie, Hayden, and England remind us of the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring importance of honoring those who fought valiantly in one of America’s darkest hours. Their names and sacrifices will never be forgotten, ensuring their legacy lives on in the annals of history.

Those Left Behind: Why So Many Fallen Men Remain On Board Their Ship is a haunting tale of the tragic events of December 7, 1941, a day that forever changed history. On that fateful morning, 1,999 sailors, 233 soldiers, 109 marines, and 49 civilians lost their lives during Japan’s devastating attack on Pearl Harbor. It was a quiet morning, and as men went about their routines—some enjoying breakfast while others had already begun their duties—no one anticipated the chaos about to unfold.

The USS Arizona became one of the most tragic symbols of that day. A bomb dropped by Japanese forces struck the forward deck, triggering a catastrophic explosion that tore the ship apart and set it ablaze. Within moments, 1,177 sailors and marines perished. The ship burned for two and a half days, making rescue operations nearly impossible.

Of the 1,177 men who perished on the USS Arizona, only 107 were positively identified. Many bodies were never recovered, likely consumed by the raging fires. Others were retrieved but too damaged for identification. These unidentified remains were interred in mass graves and later relocated to the Punchbowl National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu. For those whose remains were found in the rear compartments of the ship, identification was impossible, and they were left to rest within the sunken vessel.

This heartbreaking reality was not exclusive to the USS Arizona. Ships like the Oklahoma, West Virginia, and Utah also saw the loss of hundreds of men, many of whom remain unidentified.

The USS Oklahoma suffered immense losses, with 429 men killed during the attack. Over the years, only 35 of these individuals were officially identified. The remaining bodies were buried in the Punchbowl Cemetery. However, advances in forensic science and DNA technology offer new hope. In 2015, the Pentagon announced plans to exhume the remains of 388 sailors and marines from the USS Oklahoma to attempt DNA identification.

Today, the stories of these brave men continue to resonate. Efforts to identify the fallen not only provide closure to families but also honor their sacrifice. Each name added to the list of the identified brings us closer to giving these heroes the recognition they deserve.

The attack on Pearl Harbor was more than a military strike; it was a moment that shaped the course of history. Understanding the sacrifices made that day helps us honor the past while ensuring future generations never forget. The sunken ships like the USS Arizona remain as somber reminders of the bravery and tragedy that marked December 7, 1941.

Through advances in science and a commitment to remembrance, the legacy of those who served will endure, ensuring their stories are never lost to time.

The Battle of Iwo Jima stands as one of the most intense and pivotal confrontations of World War II’s Pacific campaign. This historic battle was born out of the devastating attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, which not only ended America’s policy of isolationism but also drew the nation into a brutal conflict against Japan. Before this surprise assault, the United States, led by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, had resisted involvement in global wars, shaped by the hardships of the Great Depression and the lingering trauma of World War I. However, the attack on Pearl Harbor turned the tide, plunging America into a fierce struggle for dominance in the Pacific, culminating in battles like the one for Iwo Jima.

Located strategically south of Japan’s main islands, Iwo Jima was a critical target for the United States. Capturing this tiny volcanic island would significantly curtail the operational range of the Japanese Air Force by eliminating its forward airfields. For the Japanese, the island represented their last line of defense, and they spared no effort in fortifying it with an intricate network of bunkers, hidden artillery, and underground tunnels. What was anticipated to be a week-long battle starting on February 19, 1945, stretched into a grueling five-week confrontation, concluding only on March 26. Despite their fierce resistance, the Japanese suffered catastrophic losses, with more casualties than the Americans.

The United States began its assault with one of the most comprehensive bombing campaigns in the Pacific theater. Despite days of heavy bombardment, the deeply entrenched Japanese defenses proved resilient. The Marines, who had initially called for triple the firepower, faced unrelenting challenges as they landed.

On February 19, 1945, U.S. Marines touched down on Iwo Jima, expecting easy access due to the island’s seemingly favorable beaches. However, they were met with treacherous terrain, including steep 15-foot embankments of soft volcanic sand, which hindered movement and made digging protective foxholes impossible. Initial resistance was minimal, leading the troops to falsely believe their bombardments had decimated the Japanese forces. This illusion was shattered when the Japanese unleashed a devastating artillery barrage, inflicting heavy casualties on the Marines amassed on the beaches.

Among the brave leaders of the assault were “Harry the Horse” Liversedge and Tony Stein, the latter earning the Medal of Honor posthumously for his heroism. Over 70,000 Marines participated in the operation, enduring relentless enemy fire and treacherous conditions to secure the island. A pivotal part of their strategy was severing Japanese forces by advancing across Iwo Jima’s narrowest stretch, isolating enemy troops entrenched on Mount Suribachi.

The battle’s defining moment came with the iconic photograph of six Marines raising the American flag on Mount Suribachi. Captured by photographer Joe Rosenthal, this Pulitzer Prize-winning image became a symbol of American perseverance and sacrifice. However, the moment was bittersweet. Three of the Marines—Private First Class Franklin Sousley, Sergeant Michael Strank, and Corporal Harlon Block—lost their lives just days after the photograph was taken. The surviving flag raisers, Corporals Ira Hayes and Rene Gagnon, were identified soon after, while the identity of Harold Schultz as the third survivor was only verified in 2016.

This legendary photograph is now etched into American history, appearing on everything from postage stamps to museum exhibits, including those at Pearl Harbor, serving as a poignant reminder of the courage displayed during the Battle of Iwo Jima.

The Battle of Iwo Jima remains a testament to the resilience and determination of U.S. forces in one of World War II’s most grueling campaigns. The sacrifices made during those five weeks underscored the immense cost of war while cementing the battle’s place in history as a defining chapter in the fight for the Pacific.

When we think of the December 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor, our minds often conjure up images of sailors desperately scrambling on decks, trying to abandon ship or take up arms against the onslaught of Japanese bombers. It’s hard to imagine experiencing such a monumental event without directly witnessing the chaos unfolding. But not every sailor was in the thick of the action. Many, like Orville Montgomery, a sailor aboard USS Maryland (BB-46), found themselves below deck, unaware of the full scale of destruction.

Orville Montgomery was in the middle of his breakfast when the first explosions shook USS Maryland. Though the ship he was on had not been struck, the blasts came from the nearby USS Oklahoma (BB-37), which was anchored alongside. The rocking of the Maryland was Montgomery’s first sign that something was amiss. It would be the only physical connection he had to the attack, as Montgomery remained below deck throughout the entire assault.

As a part of the damage control station crew, Montgomery was stationed well below the waterline, where he couldn’t see the damage or understand the full scale of the attack. Instead, he and his fellow crew members could only hear the muffled sounds of explosions and the tearing of metal above them. They were essentially blind to the attack that was devastating Pearl Harbor.

For hours, Montgomery worked in the dark, with no visual understanding of what was unfolding above. Despite knowing that his ship had been rocked by explosions, he remained isolated from the chaos outside. Had USS Maryland been struck a deadly blow, there would have been little chance of escape for Montgomery and his crew, as they were so deep within the ship.

Imagine the agony of being part of one of the most significant moments in U.S. history without seeing the catastrophic events unfolding around you. Visitors to Pearl Harbor today can experience something similar when touring the Battleship Missouri (BB-63). Being inside this World War II-era battleship offers a glimpse into what it might have felt like for sailors like Montgomery, cut off from the outside world, unaware of the devastation that had already occurred.

Though USS Maryland had been hit by two bombs, the damage wasn’t enough to sink the mighty battleship. Unfortunately, two officers and two crew members lost their lives, but Maryland remained afloat. Around 11:00 AM, Montgomery was finally relieved from his post. As he made his way to the top deck, the reality of the attack hit him with full force.

It was then that Montgomery saw the oil-slicked waters, the sunken USS Arizona (BB-39), and the capsized USS Oklahoma. The devastation was overwhelming. As Montgomery recalled, “It was a sight you don’t forget.”

Orville Montgomery’s experience serves as a reminder that not all who lived through the attack on Pearl Harbor had the same perspective. While many sailors fought bravely on the front lines, others like Montgomery experienced the events in isolation, waiting to understand the scope of what had just occurred. This fascinating contrast in experiences highlights the range of human responses to one of history’s most pivotal moments.

By visiting Pearl Harbor and experiencing the history up close, modern-day visitors can better understand the diverse ways in which individuals experienced the attack. Through Montgomery’s eyes, we can appreciate the isolation and fear felt by those who, although they didn’t see the destruction, lived through the turmoil that changed the world forever.

The morning of December 7, 1941, on the island of Oahu was one of chaos and confusion. While most sailors and Marines at Pearl Harbor quickly understood what was happening, John “Jack” Vaessen, an electrician aboard the former battleship USS Utah (BB-31/AG-16), was unaware of the devastating attack that was unfolding just above his head.

USS Utah, converted into a target and training ship long before the attack, was not armed as a battleship anymore. However, several Japanese pilots mistakenly thought it still was, and they focused their efforts on the ship during the assault on Pearl Harbor. After the attack began, Utah was struck by six torpedoes, two of which hit their target. Down below in the electrical power station, the 25-year-old Vaessen was oblivious to the attack above. All he knew was that his ship had been struck and was listing severely.

As the USS Utah began to tilt more and more, Jack Vaessen quickly realized the severity of the situation. Equipment was being dislodged, and water began pouring into the ship. While attempting to maintain the power, Vaessen was struck by loose objects, including fire extinguishers and deck plates. It was a race against time. With only a flashlight and a wrench, Vaessen continued to try to find his bearings in the chaos.

As the water levels rose and the ship’s electrical components short-circuited, leaving him in darkness, escape seemed increasingly impossible. Utah had no loudspeaker system, so Vaessen remained unaware of the broader events unfolding at Pearl Harbor. All he knew was that he needed to find a way off the sinking vessel.

Finally, Vaessen made his way to the end of the ship, only to find himself trapped beneath the overturned vessel. Desperate to be rescued, he pounded on the ship’s hull with his wrench and flashlight, hoping to get the attention of any nearby rescuers. His hands were blistered from the effort, but he kept going, refusing to give up.

Eventually, help arrived in the form of the crew from the nearby USS Raleigh (CL-7), who used cutting tools to burn a hole through the bottom of the ship. It was large enough for Vaessen to crawl through and escape. Freed from his ordeal, he finally saw the destruction and chaos that had unfolded during the attack on Pearl Harbor.

For his bravery in continuing his duties under life-threatening conditions, Jack Vaessen was awarded the Navy Cross. His remarkable actions that day are a testament to the courage and resilience of the men who served at Pearl Harbor. Jack Vaessen lived a long life, passing away in 2018 at the age of 101. In 2016, he celebrated his 100th birthday, a milestone that reflected not only his survival but also his incredible contribution to the defense of the United States during one of the darkest moments in its history.

Jack Vaessen’s story remains a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served at Pearl Harbor. His survival of the USS Utah’s sinking is a testament to the strength and determination of the men who faced unimaginable challenges on that fateful day.

As each year passes, the number of Pearl Harbor survivors continues to dwindle, making the birthday celebrations of these brave individuals even more significant. One such hero, Bernie Weber, marked his incredible 101st birthday on March 21, 2019, with friends and family in Colorado. His milestone birthday is a testament to the resilience of a man who lived through some of the most harrowing moments of World War II.

It’s hard to overstate the importance of Bernie Weber’s place in history. On December 7, 1941, he found himself right in the middle of the surprise attack by the Imperial Japanese Navy on the US naval base at Pearl Harbor. The attack would thrust the United States into the global conflict of World War II, ending its long-standing policy of isolationism. Bernie Weber was stationed aboard the USS Oklahoma (BB-37), where he became a firsthand witness to the devastating events that would change the world.

The USS Oklahoma was one of the ships hit hardest during the attack. Torpedoes struck the battleship, causing her to capsize and sink, with 429 crew members losing their lives. This tragic event made Oklahoma the second deadliest ship that day, after the USS Arizona (BB-39), which lost 1,177 sailors. Against the odds, Bernie Weber survived the sinking of the USS Oklahoma, a feat many considered miraculous. But the hardships he faced didn’t end there.

Bernie Weber’s survival of the USS Oklahoma sinking was only the beginning of his incredible journey during World War II. After being listed as missing in action (MIA) for ten days following the attack, Weber continued his service in the Pacific Theater, displaying remarkable courage and resilience. He was reassigned to the USS Northampton (CA-26), a heavy cruiser involved in operations in the Pacific.

Unfortunately, the fate of the USS Northampton would follow a similar path. During the Battle of Tassafaronga on November 30, 1942, the ship was struck by two torpedoes while engaged in an operation to block Japanese reinforcements from reaching Guadalcanal. The ship was severely damaged, and as it took on water, Weber once again had to escape a sinking ship. This marked the second time he survived the sinking of a ship during the war, an extraordinary testament to his survival instincts and unwavering determination.

Bernie Weber’s 101st birthday was an occasion to reflect on a lifetime of remarkable experiences. Surrounded by family and friends, Weber shared stories from his seven years of service in the United States Navy and the tragic events of December 7, 1941, and November 30, 1942. His life serves as a living connection to the harrowing experiences of those who fought during World War II, especially the survivors of the Pearl Harbor attack.

For those who remember the Pearl Harbor attack, Bernie Weber’s birthday is a reminder of the sacrifices made by so many. His survival through two ship sinkings is a testament to the courage and resilience of the greatest generation. Today, as fewer survivors remain, it is essential to honor their stories and ensure that the lessons of Pearl Harbor are never forgotten.

When you’re exploring the events of December 7, 1941, at Pearl Harbor, you don’t need to be a naval expert to understand the basics. The museums, memorials, and tours offer all the important historical details, such as the names and fates of the ships that were there that fateful morning. However, if you’re someone who enjoys digging deeper and understanding the more technical aspects, one term you might hear is “listing.” But what does it actually mean when we say a ship is listing?

The term “listing” is used to describe when a ship tilts to one side, often due to water flooding into its hull. A vessel can list either to port (left) or starboard (right), which can impact its stability. In contrast, when we say a ship is “trimming,” it refers to a forward or backward tilt, such as the bow or stern being lower than usual.

It’s also crucial not to confuse listing with rolling. While listing involves a ship tilting to one side, rolling describes the side-to-side motion a ship experiences as it moves through rough seas. Both conditions can be dangerous if they become extreme, as either could potentially lead to a ship capsizing.

The ships at Pearl Harbor experienced significant damage during the attack, and the word “listing” is frequently used when describing their fates. One of the most notable examples is the USS Oklahoma (BB-37), which was struck by multiple torpedoes during the attack. The bomb hits caused Oklahoma to immediately start listing to her port side. An official report from Commander Jesse L. Kenworthy mentioned that Oklahoma had a 25- to 35-degree list after the initial attack. As more torpedoes hit her, the flooding worsened, and the ship’s list grew, eventually causing Oklahoma to capsize. The ship would have completely overturned if it weren’t for her masts striking the harbor floor, preventing a full flip.

Another ship that experienced a listing was the USS West Virginia (BB-48), which also took multiple torpedo hits. However, the crew aboard West Virginia was able to implement a counter-flooding strategy. This process involved flooding certain sections of the ship in a controlled manner to balance out the weight distribution, preventing her from listing further and potentially capsizing. Timely counter-flooding played a critical role in helping West Virginia stay upright and making it easier to refloat her later.

While the term “listing” may seem like a small detail, understanding it adds a layer of depth to the historical events that unfolded on December 7, 1941. The fates of ships like the USS Oklahoma and USS West Virginia are etched in history, and knowing about the technical terms related to their conditions helps bring the full story to life. The ability to describe how a ship’s stability was impacted by water, explosions, and torpedo strikes gives visitors and history buffs a more vivid picture of the intense and tragic events of that day.

For those planning a visit to Pearl Harbor, understanding these terms is not necessary to enjoy the experience, but for those who want to dive deeper into the technical and naval aspects of the attack, terms like “listing” offer a fascinating glimpse into the battleships’ struggles to stay afloat. It’s these details that make the history of Pearl Harbor so compelling, and they continue to capture the imaginations of visitors from all over the world.

In the end, while “listing” might just be a small part of the larger story, it serves as a powerful reminder of the strength, resilience, and tragic loss faced by the sailors and ships of Pearl Harbor.

On the morning of December 7, 1941, a surprise attack by the Imperial Japanese Navy struck Pearl Harbor, catching the U.S. Pacific Fleet completely off guard. While most stationed at the naval base never saw the enemy fleet responsible for launching the deadly assault, some sailors at sea unknowingly encountered part of the Japanese strike force before the attack. One such sailor was Sherwin Callander.

Aboard the auxiliary seaplane tender USS Wright (AV-1), Callander and his fellow crewmen were sailing towards Pearl Harbor when they passed an unidentified aircraft carrier on the open waters of the Pacific. With no visible national markings or flags, the carrier’s identity remained a mystery. At the time, there was no immediate reason for alarm, and the USS Wright continued on its course.

It wasn’t until the following morning, as distressing reports of the Pearl Harbor attack began circulating, that Callander realized the truth. The vessel they had passed was likely one of the Japanese aircraft carriers en route to launch the infamous surprise attack. By then, it was too late to act, and the USS Wright pressed forward to reach its devastated home port.

When the USS Wright arrived at Pearl Harbor on December 8, the harbor was still engulfed in flames. The wreckage of battleships littered the waters, and the smell of burning fuel and destruction lingered in the air. Callander and his shipmates were assigned the grim task of recovering debris and the remains of fallen sailors. Witnessing the horrific destruction firsthand, the 20-year-old sailor was deeply affected, fueling a deep-seated determination to serve in combat against the Japanese forces.

Instead of engaging in direct battle in the Pacific, Sherwin Callander’s service led him to another defining moment in World War II—D-Day. Volunteering for amphibious training, he became part of the Allied invasion force at Normandy. On June 6, 1944, Callander landed at Utah Beach, experiencing the chaos and intensity of the largest amphibious invasion in history. Unlike at Pearl Harbor, where he arrived a day too late, this time he was in the thick of battle, facing relentless enemy fire as the Allies pushed forward.

Despite missing the initial attack on Pearl Harbor, Callander remains a respected member of the Pearl Harbor survivor community. Over the years, he has returned to Pearl Harbor to honor those who perished and share his experiences with younger generations. He has also visited Normandy, commemorating the sacrifices made on D-Day, an event that defined his military service.

Now a veteran of two of World War II’s most historic moments, Sherwin Callander dedicates his time to educating others. Whether speaking to clubs, schools, or organizations, he ensures that the stories of Pearl Harbor and the Normandy invasion live on, reminding the world of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom.

His journey, from an unexpected encounter with the enemy to surviving the brutality of D-Day, is a testament to the resilience and courage of the Greatest Generation.

Donald Stratton, USS Arizona survivor, has died, marking the end of an era for one of the last living witnesses of the Pearl Harbor attack. On the morning of December 7, 1941, six sailors were rescued from the burning and sinking USS Arizona (BB-39) by Joe George, a courageous crew member aboard the repair ship USS Vestal (AR-4). On February 15, 2020, one of those brave men, Donald Stratton, passed away after dedicating much of his life to ensuring that Joe George received the recognition he deserved.

Before his passing, Stratton was one of only three surviving USS Arizona crew members. Now, only Lou Conter and Ken Potts remain, carrying the responsibility of sharing their firsthand accounts of the attack on Pearl Harbor—a pivotal event that led the United States into World War II.

Donald Stratton’s lifelong mission was to ensure that the events of December 7, 1941, and the sacrifices made by those aboard the USS Arizona would never be forgotten. “One of Donald’s final wishes was that people remember Pearl Harbor and the men aboard the USS Arizona,” his wife Velma shared on Facebook. “Share their story and never forget those who gave all for our great country.”

Stratton dedicated much of his post-war life to keeping the memory of Pearl Harbor alive. His memoir, All the Gallant Men, provides a gripping account of the attack, the severe burns he suffered, the heroic actions of Joe George, his arduous recovery, and his eventual return to military service.

Born on July 14, 1922, in Red Cloud, Nebraska, Donald Stratton grew up in the heart of America’s Midwest. After graduating from high school, like many patriotic young men of his time, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. In the fall of 1940, he was assigned to the USS Arizona, where he manned an anti-aircraft gun. Just over a year later, he found himself at the center of one of the most devastating attacks in U.S. history.

In the early hours of December 7, 1941, Stratton stepped onto the deck of the USS Arizona and saw Japanese dive bombers approaching. The call to battle stations rang out, and he climbed three ladders to reach his position. As he prepared to fire the 5-inch guns, the ship was struck by devastating enemy fire.

The Arizona suffered catastrophic damage within minutes. Flames engulfed the deck, setting Stratton’s uniform on fire. He and five fellow sailors, severely burned and desperate for help, signaled for assistance. Their cries reached Joe George aboard the USS Vestal. Disobeying direct orders to cut ties with the doomed battleship, George threw a lifeline to the trapped men, saving their lives.

Due to his severe injuries, Stratton was medically discharged in September 1942 and returned to Red Cloud to recover. However, his desire to serve never wavered. By February 1944, he successfully reenlisted in the Navy. He went on to fight in critical battles across the Pacific, including campaigns in New Guinea, the Philippines, and the decisive Battle of Okinawa. His unwavering dedication ensured that he both witnessed the start and end of World War II.

After the war, Stratton worked for a diving company and later in offshore drilling. But his most important mission was to honor Joe George, the man who saved his life. Stratton and his fellow survivors campaigned tirelessly for decades to have George officially recognized. In 2017, their efforts paid off when Joe George was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star for his heroic actions.

Unlike some USS Arizona survivors who chose to have their ashes interred with their fallen shipmates, Stratton opted to be buried in his home state of Nebraska. His legacy, however, remains forever tied to the men of the USS Arizona and the memory of Pearl Harbor.

Donald Stratton is survived by his wife of 69 years, four children, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His story, his bravery, and his dedication to honoring the past will continue to inspire future generations. His final wish was simple: “Remember Pearl Harbor.”

The Kohler Brothers in World War II is a story of sacrifice, brotherhood, and the unwavering spirit of two young men determined to serve their country. When the United States was thrust into World War II following the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, Charles and Edwin Kohler felt an undeniable calling to fight for their nation. Their father, understanding their determination, suggested, “Why don’t you go together and protect each other?” With that thought in mind, the Kohler brothers enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, never realizing how profoundly their decision would impact their lives and their family.

After enlisting, Charles (Charlie) and Edwin (Eddie) were initially stationed together at Camp Pendleton, California. However, fate had different plans. While Charlie was deployed to Maui to train with an anti-tank platoon before heading to battles in the Pacific, Eddie was assigned to a desk job in Bermuda, a far cry from the action he longed for. Feeling unfulfilled, Eddie requested a transfer to join his brother in combat. When the unit regrouped in Hawaii, Eddie surprised Charlie with his arrival, explaining, “I want to do what I was trained to do. I want to fight the Japanese.”

With his request granted, the Kohler brothers were finally together again, ready to face the war as they had always planned—side by side.

On February 19, 1945, the Kohler brothers found themselves in one of the most grueling battles of World War II—the Battle of Iwo Jima. Eddie, among the first wave of Marines to storm the beaches, faced relentless enemy fire as they advanced. Charlie’s unit followed closely behind, dodging heavy artillery as they searched for cover.

While seeking shelter, Charlie and four other Marines found what they believed was a safe spot in a ditch. However, the Japanese forces on Mount Suribachi had a clear view of their position. A bomb was dropped, instantly killing Charlie’s companions. Miraculously, Charlie survived but suffered severe shrapnel wounds and a leg injury. Despite his wounds, he crawled 200 yards back to the landing zone, unaware of his brother’s fate.
Meanwhile, just 50 feet away, Eddie was gravely wounded. He fought bravely but succumbed to his injuries. The day after the landing, Edwin Kohler was buried at sea. Charlie, recovering aboard the USS Bayfield (APA-33), was left in the dark about his brother’s passing. It wasn’t until days later, while in Pearl Harbor, that he finally received the heartbreaking news. By then, his parents already knew.

Charlie spent the next year recovering from his injuries, but his wounds were not just physical. The war had taken his brother, and his once-promising baseball career was no longer an option. Before the war, Charlie had been a star baseball player in high school and even played a season in the minor leagues. But the injuries he sustained in battle meant he would never take the field again.

Despite these losses, Charlie rebuilt his life. He joined his father in running the family printing business, eventually taking it over. Though the war had changed everything, he remained connected to his Marine brothers, regularly attending reunions of the 23rd Regimental Weapons Company. His resilience and dedication to honoring his fallen brother made his story one of enduring bravery and sacrifice.

The story of Charles and Edwin Kohler is a testament to the unwavering courage of those who serve. It reminds us of the deep bonds forged in battle, the sacrifices made, and the families forever impacted by war. Their story continues to inspire, ensuring that their bravery and brotherhood are never forgotten.

For those who visit Pearl Harbor and the memorials dedicated to World War II heroes, the legacy of brothers like Charles and Edwin Kohler stands as a powerful reminder of the cost of freedom. Their courage, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to their country remain etched in history, honoring not just their service but the sacrifice of all who fought in the Pacific Theater.