Meeting in the Air: American Pilots at Pearl Harbor

Author: Gary Ell, USAF

On the morning of December 7, 1941, Pearl Harbor was shaken by a surprise Japanese attack that marked a pivotal moment in World War II right after that American pilots at Pearl Harbor were seen in the air. At the same time, much is known about the devastation on the ground and at sea, the bravery of American pilots who took to the skies that day is a story that deserves recognition.

Among the first American casualties were Sgt. Henry C. Blackwell, Cpl. Clyde C. Brown, and Sgt. Warren D. Rasmussen, was on a recreational flight over the water when Japanese planes arrived. Their tragic deaths underscore the suddenness of the attack and the perils faced by all who were in the air that morning.
However, the best-known American pilots from that fateful day are 2nd Lt. Kenneth Taylor and 2nd Lt. George Welch. Both men had spent the night before at the officers’ club at Wheeler Army Airfield, enjoying a night of dancing and poker. They were still in their tuxedo pants when they heard the gunfire and explosions signaling the beginning of the attack. Without hesitation, they raced to Haleiwa Field, dodging bullets as they sped toward their planes.
Once airborne in their P-40B Warhawks, Taylor and Welch engaged the enemy with unparalleled courage. Despite being vastly outnumbered, they managed to shoot down at least six Japanese planes, though the true number might be higher. Their heroism in the face of overwhelming odds provided a crucial defense, potentially preventing even greater devastation during the attack.
After their initial sortie, the two pilots landed to reload their ammunition, despite orders not to return to the air. When they took off again, they directly confronted the incoming wave of Japanese planes. Taylor was injured during the battle, but Welch continued to fight, bringing down another enemy aircraft.
The actions of Taylor and Welch that morning earned them the Distinguished Service Cross, though many believe they deserve the Medal of Honor. Their bravery and quick thinking saved lives and showcased the resilience and determination of American forces in the face of adversity.
When visiting Pearl Harbor today, it’s essential to remember not just the ships and memorials but also the stories of the airmen who fought with everything they had. The Pacific Aviation Museum offers visitors a chance to delve into these stories, ensuring that the courage of Taylor, Welch, and all the other pilots who took to the skies that day is never forgotten.
Pearl Harbor is often remembered as a symbol of American loss, but it’s also a testament to the bravery and heroism of those who fought back, both on the ground and in the air. The legacy of the American pilots at Pearl Harbor serves as a reminder of the indomitable spirit that defines the U.S. military, even in the darkest of times.

Most Popular Oahu Tours

Best Pearl Harbor Tours

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The following tours are recognized as the most popular Pearl Harbor Tours on Oahu. While generally, our price is the lowest in the market now, for a limited time, they are on sale too. Please be advised that Pearl Harbor tickets and USS Arizona Memorial tickets are included in all of our Arizona Memorial Tours, Pearl Harbor small group tours, and private Pearl Harbor tours.

  • tour1

    Tour # 1

    Deluxe Pearl Harbor Excursion

    Duration:

    about 4.5 - 5 hours

    Was

    $100.00

    Now

    $45.00

  • Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona Memorial monument, and a short Honolulu city tour

    Tour # 2

    Deluxe Pearl Harbor & Honolulu City Tour From Waikiki

    Duration:

    about 4.5 - 5 hours

    Was

    $110.00

    Now

    $49.00

  • GT-PT-3_1-346x346_c-1

    Tour # 3

    Bowfin Submarine - Arizona Memorial & Short Honolulu City Tour

    Duration:

    about 7 - 8 hours

    Was

    $175.00

    Now

    $125.00