The First American Casualty of Pearl Harbor

The Japanese surprise attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, is a defining moment in American history. It plunged the United States into World War II and forever changed the course of the nation. But amidst the chaos and destruction, a single life lost marked the terrible cost of war – Ensign Wesley J. Ruth, the first American casualty of Pearl Harbor.

Ensign Ruth, a young man from Fayetteville, Arkansas, was stationed aboard the USS Oklahoma, a mighty battleship moored at Pearl Harbor. At around 7:55 AM that fateful morning, the tranquility of the harbor was shattered by the roar of Japanese warplanes. Multiple torpedoes slammed into the USS Oklahoma, causing her to capsize rapidly. Ensign Ruth, serving as the Assistant Navigator, was likely trapped inside the tilting ship along with many of his fellow crew members. Rescue efforts were swift, but the situation was dire. Sadly, Ensign Ruth succumbed to his injuries during the attempt to save him. He was one of the 429 crewmen on the USS Oklahoma who perished that day.

The USS Oklahoma became a symbol of the devastation at Pearl Harbor. She sustained the second-greatest number of casualties. Ensign Ruth’s sacrifice represents the profound impact of the attack on American servicemen. In the aftermath of the attack, Ensign Ruth’s name was etched in the memories of a nation forever changed. He, along with all the fallen heroes of Pearl Harbor, are immortalized in various memorials. His story serves as a stark reminder of the courage and sacrifice of those who bravely served their country.

The sinking of the USS Oklahoma also had a lasting impact beyond the loss of life. It led to significant changes in naval safety protocols and ship designs. New measures were implemented to prevent similar tragedies and ensure the safety of sailors in the future. While war brings immense loss, Ensign Ruth’s story also serves as a reminder of the unwavering spirit of the American people. His death, along with countless others, became a rallying cry that united the nation against the threat of Japanese aggression.

Ensign Wesley J. Ruth may have been the first American casualty of Pearl Harbor, but his legacy lives on. His name stands tall among the fallen, a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of those who stood guard in the face of unimaginable danger. We remember him and all those who served at Pearl Harbor for their unwavering dedication and the price they paid for our freedom.