As the world prepares to commemorate the 84th anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack, Ken Schubring, one of the few living survivors, reflects on his harrowing experiences from that historic day in 1941. Now at 103 years old, Schubring recounts memories that shaped his life and honors those who sacrificed their lives during the attack. His recollections serve not only as a reminder of the past but also as a call to remembrance during a time when veterans are rapidly dwindling in number.
| Article Subheadings |
|---|
| 1) A Survivor’s Journey: Enlisting Young |
| 2) The Day of Infamy: December 7, 1941 |
| 3) Life After Pearl Harbor: A New Chapter |
| 4) Commemorating Sacrifice: Family Reflections |
| 5) The Importance of Remembering History |
A Survivor’s Journey: Enlisting Young
At just 17 years old, Ken Schubring made a decision that would alter the course of his life. Growing up in a time when the shadows of war loomed, Schubring felt an undeniable pull to serve his country. Reflecting on his entry into military service, he stated,
“Everything seemed to lean toward that being in the cards sooner rather than later.”
This youthful resolve set him on a path that intertwined his destiny with one of the most significant events in American history.
Schubring’s youth, however, did not dampen his spirit; he willingly accepted the responsibilities that came with military service. Enlisting during a period marked by tension, he trained alongside fellow soldiers, absorbing lessons of bravery and camaraderie, unaware of the real test that awaited him. The decision to enlist seemed inevitable, as the nation was on the brink of war, and young men like Schubring stepped forward, eager to contribute to the defense of their homeland.
The Day of Infamy: December 7, 1941
December 7, 1941, dawned like any other day for Ken Schubring. Following his guard duty, he went to eat breakfast when suddenly an explosion shattered the morning calm. As he recounted,
“I went to eat breakfast after my duty and shortly before 8 a.m., an explosion shook our bunkers.”
This marked the beginning of a chaotic and tragic series of events that would be forever etched in history.
Amid the chaos, Schubring dashed outside, witnessing the skies filled with enemy aircraft. He described the pandemonium, saying,
“The sky was full of airplanes, dive bombers.”
The reality of war was thrust upon him as he took cover, instinctively crawling into a nearby ditch. The attack was swift and brutal, leaving an indelible mark on anyone who experienced it. As one of the remaining few survivors, Schubring often reflects on how moments from that day shape his memories and emotions.
Life After Pearl Harbor: A New Chapter
Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, Ken Schubring transitioned into a different role within the military, becoming a flight engineer on B-29 bombers. His missions took him across the Pacific, often flying perilously close to battle zones like Iwo Jima. Schubring stated,
“We’d fly straight over Iwo Jima or around it to our targets.”
This transformation from a survivor of an attack to an active participant in air raids exemplifies the resilience and adaptability of many servicemen during World War II.
Yet even after his military service ended, Schubring continued to serve his community. He took an active role in social justice, advocating for racial school integration in Athens, Georgia. As president of the school board, Schubring faced challenges, but he remained steadfast in his pursuit of equality and justice—a journey that his son, Ken Schubring Jr., remembers with pride, revealing the deep impact his father’s experiences had on the values he instilled.
Commemorating Sacrifice: Family Reflections
As the anniversary of the attack approaches, the Schubring family reflects on the sacrifices made by veterans. Ken Schubring Jr. emphasized the need for remembrance, stating,
“I mean, the sacrifice that was given that day and then, subsequently years later, I mean, you can’t put a price on that. You can’t forget it.”
Such sentiments highlight the meaningful impact of remembering historical events and the sacrifices made by service members like his father.
During a recent ceremony at the National WWII Museum, Senator Marsha Blackburn expressed her gratitude for Schubring’s service, stating it was a “pleasure” to honor him. This recognition not only celebrates Schubring’s life but also reverberates through the tales shared by those who remember the lessons learned from that tragic day in history.
The Importance of Remembering History
As veteran survivors like Ken Schubring become increasingly rare, the importance of preserving their stories becomes paramount. The anniversaries of events like Pearl Harbor serve as reminders of the fragility of peace and the cost of war. Schubring’s reflections on the attack not only provide insight into a fierce battle but also provoke thoughts on the moral imperative to learn from history.
Moreover, the continuous risk of forgetting such events underlines the need for ongoing education and commemoration. Teachings based on firsthand experiences can inspire future generations to value peace and understand the impacts of conflict. Schubring’s journey, marked by sacrifice and resilience, serves both as a lesson and an exhortation to remember the past.
| No. | Key Points |
|---|---|
| 1 | Ken Schubring, at 103, reflects on his experiences as a Pearl Harbor survivor. |
| 2 | The December 7, 1941 attack dramatically altered Schubring’s life. |
| 3 | After Pearl Harbor, Schubring became a flight engineer on B-29 bombers. |
| 4 | Schubring’s family emphasizes the importance of remembering sacrifices made during the war. |
| 5 | The importance of education and commemoration of historical events is underscored through Schubring’s narrative. |
Summary
As Ken Schubring shares his experiences as a Pearl Harbor survivor, he embodies the spirit of resilience and remembrance that defines a generation. His reflections not only honor the sacrifices of those who served but also remind us of the importance of learning from our history. As the years pass, it becomes crucial to uphold the stories of those like Schubring, ensuring that future generations acknowledge the true cost of freedom and the lessons of the past.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Who is Ken Schubring?
Ken Schubring is a 103-year-old Pearl Harbor survivor who reflects on his experiences during the attack and his service in World War II.
Question: What role did Schubring play during World War II?
After the Pearl Harbor attack, Schubring served as a flight engineer on B-29 bombers, participating in missions across the Pacific.
Question: Why is it important to remember historical events like Pearl Harbor?
Remembering events like Pearl Harbor is crucial for understanding the past, honoring sacrifices, and promoting peace for future generations.
