Heroes of the Harbor: Mel Heckman

On December 7, 2016, Mel Heckman, one of the few remaining survivors of the Pearl Harbor attack, returned to the site of the infamous bombing for the first time since that fateful day in 1941. At 93 years old, Heckman was joined by his family as he made a poignant journey through time, revisiting the place where his life, and the course of history, was irrevocably changed.
As a young fireman, just 18 years old, Heckman had been stationed at Ford Island Naval Station on Battleship Row for six months before the Japanese attack. Though not on the front lines of battle, his bravery and quick actions that day saved many lives, earning him a Purple Heart and the gratitude of his fellow sailors.

On the morning of December 7, 1941, the peaceful tropical paradise of Oahu turned into a warzone as Japanese bombers launched a surprise attack on the U.S. Pacific Fleet stationed at Pearl Harbor. The explosions and gunfire engulfed Battleship Row, where Heckman was stationed. While he was not manning heavy artillery or anti-aircraft guns, his role as a fireman placed him right in the thick of the action.
Amid the chaos, Heckman was hit by bomb shrapnel, leaving metal shards embedded in his back. Despite his injuries, he remained on his feet and continued his life-saving work. His actions that day were instrumental in saving the lives of several fellow soldiers who might not have survived without his intervention.

As the bombs continued to rain down, Heckman witnessed the destruction of two of the most iconic ships of that day—the USS Arizona and the USS Oklahoma. Both vessels were hit hard, sinking into the harbor with many of their crew trapped inside. The soldiers who survived the initial explosions found themselves in the treacherous waters, which were now on fire due to the oil leaking from the damaged ships.
In the face of this unimaginable scene, Heckman and his crew jumped into action, pulling survivors from the burning water. He later recounted that many of those he saved were “kids,” referring to the young sailors who had barely begun their naval careers. His humility, even 75 years later, was evident when he said he was simply doing his job, but his actions that day went far beyond the call of duty.

For his courage and dedication, Heckman was awarded the Purple Heart, a symbol of the sacrifices he made for his country. However, perhaps an even greater honor came when he returned to Pearl Harbor for the 75th anniversary of the attack. There, surrounded by family and fellow veterans, he was recognized for his heroism during one of the darkest days in American history.
Heckman was one of the last surviving members of Wyoming Chapter #1 of the Pearl Harbor Survivors, a group that once included many who had experienced the horrors of that day firsthand. By 2016, only two members of his chapter remained, and across the country, the number of Pearl Harbor survivors had dwindled to around 2,000.

After surviving the attack on Pearl Harbor, Heckman continued his military service. He attended officer candidate school and later trained at the Naval Air Training Center in Pensacola, Florida. By 1944, he had earned his wings and went on to fight in World War II, serving his country with distinction. In 1946, after the war had ended, Heckman left the Navy and transitioned into civilian life, carrying with him the memories of the war and the camaraderie of his fellow servicemen.

Mel Heckman’s story, like those of countless others, serves as a reminder of the courage and resilience of the American servicemen who were present during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument, located in Pearl Harbor, is dedicated to preserving their legacy. Visitors can learn more about Heckman and his fellow heroes through interactive exhibits, real wartime artifacts, and tours of the historic battleships that remain at the harbor.
For anyone looking to connect with the history of Pearl Harbor and honor the bravery of men like Mel Heckman, a visit to this hallowed site is essential. It is through these stories of valor that we continue to remember and pay tribute to the heroes of December 7, 1941.