CENTERVILLE, Mass. – On the fateful day of the Pearl Harbor attack, Freeman Johnson, the nation’s oldest living survivor, was deep below deck aboard the USS St. Louis, engaged in repairing one of the ship’s boilers. At 106 years old, Johnson’s memories of that day are shaped by his role as a fireman on the light cruiser, rather than by the chaos that erupted above him.
“While all the rigamarole was going on topside, I was inside a steam drum. Couldn’t see anything, absolutely nothing,” Johnson recalled, seated in his living room adorned with memorabilia from his Navy service. His military items include photographs of the USS St. Louis and a collection of Navy challenge coins and ribbons, alongside his cherished dog tag.
As the St. Louis maneuvered into the Pacific, Johnson remained unaware of the unfolding attack. “We were way out to sea, way out. You couldn’t see any land at all. All you saw was ocean,” he explained. The limited information provided to sailors meant that he didn’t know the gravity of the situation, as he was simply focused on his duties.
When visiting schools, children often ask him if he was scared during the attack. Johnson’s response highlights his focus on survival rather than fear: “You’re not scared. You’re too busy to be scared.” His perspective as a sailor, immersed in work and uncertainty, shaped his experience that day.
Legacy of a Survivor
Following the death of fellow World War II Navy veteran Ira “Ike” Schab, Johnson became the oldest living survivor of the Pearl Harbor attack, which resulted in the loss of over 2,400 service members and marked the United States’ entry into World War II. As Memorial Day approaches, the nation honors its fallen service members, and Johnson stands as one of only 11 remaining survivors of that tragic day.
Annual remembrance ceremonies take place at military bases, where Pearl Harbor survivors gather to reflect on their experiences. In stark contrast to the 2,000 survivors who attended the 50th anniversary event in 1991, only two were present in 2024, showcasing the dwindling number of those who witnessed the events firsthand.
Embracing Recognition
Throughout most of his life, Johnson maintained a low profile, but as the oldest survivor, he has become a local celebrity. With his 106th birthday celebrated in style, complete with a limousine ride and media attention, Johnson now receives letters from around the globe and is frequently recognized as a hero.
Living with his daughter Diane, Johnson is encouraged to share his story, emphasizing the importance of educating younger generations about Pearl Harbor. Diane views her father’s life as a historical continuum, noting, “He’s at the beginning, he’s at middle, he is at the end when he witnessed the surrender. It’s something.”
Witness to Historic Moments
Johnson’s experiences extend beyond Pearl Harbor. He played a role in commissioning the USS Iowa and was present during significant wartime events, including the transport of President Franklin D. Roosevelt to the Tehran Conference in 1943. “It was a big meeting,” Johnson reflected, recalling the ship’s preparations to accommodate such an important figure.
He also witnessed the official surrender that marked the end of World War II, observing the ceremonies aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay on September 2, 1945. “I could see the boats coming up with the Marines escorting the Japanese onto ship,” he described, emphasizing the historical significance of that moment.
A Life Beyond War
For Johnson, the events of Pearl Harbor were important but not the defining moments of his life. He reflects that his marriage and family were far more significant. After the war, he worked in various roles, including in a machinist shop and delivering meals to seniors, retiring at the age of 90.
“Pearl Harbor just happened. I can’t put it any other way,” he concluded, underscoring the humility that has characterized his life. As he shares his story, Johnson continues to connect past and present, ensuring the legacy of those who served is not forgotten.
