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• Harry Chandler, a 103-year-old Navy medic, has passed away after surviving the 1941 Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.
• Chandler played a crucial role in rescuing injured sailors from the oily waters of Pearl Harbor.
• He was one of the last few remaining survivors of the Pearl Harbor attack.

Quick Brief

2-Minute Digest

Essential Context

Harry Chandler, a Navy medic who survived the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, has died at the age of 103. Chandler was a hospital corpsman 3rd class during the attack and was instrumental in rescuing and treating injured sailors.

Core Players

• Harry Chandler – Navy medic and Pearl Harbor survivor
• U.S. Navy – Chandler served as a hospital corpsman 3rd class
• Tequesta, Florida – Location of Chandler’s residence at the time of his death

Key Numbers

• 103 – Age at the time of Chandler’s death
• 1941 – Year of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor
• 2,300+ – Number of U.S. servicemen killed in the attack
• 15 – Number of Pearl Harbor survivors still living after Chandler’s death

Full Depth

Complete Coverage

The Catalyst

Harry Chandler’s death marks the passing of another significant figure from the Pearl Harbor attack. His role as a Navy medic was crucial in the immediate aftermath of the attack, where he helped pull injured sailors from the oily waters and provided medical care.

“I saw the USS Arizona blow up. I saw the USS Oklahoma capsize, saw the USS West Virginia go down,” Chandler recalled, highlighting the devastating scene he witnessed.

Inside Forces

Chandler’s experience during the attack was one of intense focus on saving lives. He noted, “It got so busy you weren’t scared. Weren’t scared at all. We were busy. It was after you got scared,” reflecting on the chaos and urgency of the situation.

After the war, Chandler continued his commitment to helping others, working as a painter, wallpaper hanger, and owning an upholstery business with his brother. He also served in the Navy reserves, retiring as a senior chief in 1981.

Power Dynamics

Chandler’s legacy extends beyond his wartime service. He remained active well into his later years, participating in the annual Wisdom Warrior Challenge, a national event for seniors, and was a two-time gold medalist in the competition.

“Just stay active. Keep my mind going… help people. That’s the main thing. That’s what I do all the time,” Chandler advised, reflecting on his approach to a long and fulfilling life.

Outside Impact

The death of Harry Chandler, along with recent deaths of other Pearl Harbor survivors, highlights the dwindling number of living witnesses to this pivotal historical event. Only 15 Pearl Harbor survivors are now known to be alive.

Chandler’s passing serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving historical memory and honoring the sacrifices of those who served in World War II.

Future Forces

As the number of Pearl Harbor survivors continues to decrease, the need to document and share their stories becomes more urgent. Efforts to commemorate the attack and its survivors are crucial for maintaining historical awareness and educating future generations.

Initiatives such as the Wisdom Warrior Challenge also emphasize the importance of staying active and engaged, even in advanced age, reflecting Chandler’s own philosophy on life.

Data Points

• December 7, 1941 – Date of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor
• Holyoke, Massachusetts – Chandler’s birthplace
• 1981 – Year Chandler retired from the Navy reserves as a senior chief
• Tequesta, Florida – Location of Chandler’s residence at the time of his death
• Five hole-in-ones – Chandler’s golfing achievements