Remembering Bob Fernandez: A Pearl Harbor Hero

Bob Fernandez, a 100-year-old survivor of the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor, passed away peacefully at his nephew’s home in Lodi, California. His legacy as a survivor of one of the most significant events in American history lives on, as we remember his bravery and sacrifice.

A Hero’s Journey

Fernandez was just a 17-year-old sailor on board the USS Curtiss when the attack on Pearl Harbor occurred on December 7, 1941. As a mess cook, he was serving his fellow sailors breakfast when the alarm sounded, signaling the imminent danger. Fernandez’s firsthand account of seeing the red ball insignia on Japanese aircraft through a porthole still sends shivers down our spines.

Rushing down three decks to the magazine room, Fernandez and his comrades waited anxiously to pass shells to the ship’s guns. The chaos, fear, and uncertainty of that day were etched in his memory forever, as he recounted the prayers and tears of his fellow sailors amid the deafening gunfire.

A Life of Service and Kindness

Following his six years in the Navy, Fernandez worked as a forklift driver at a cannery, embodying the values of hard work and dedication instilled in him during his service. His love for music, dancing, and helping others defined his post-war years, as he brought joy to those around him through his acts of kindness and generosity.

Fernandez’s simple yet profound advice for a long life resonates with us all – stop eating when full, stay active, be kind, and always lend a helping hand. His legacy of compassion and selflessness will continue to inspire generations to come.

A Lasting Legacy

As one of the few remaining survivors of Pearl Harbor, Fernandez leaves behind a remarkable story of courage, resilience, and humanity. His passing marks the end of an era, but his spirit lives on in the hearts of those who knew him and the countless lives he touched.

Let us remember Bob Fernandez not only as a hero of war but as a beacon of light in a world that often feels dark. His legacy will forever remind us of the power of kindness, compassion, and service to others. Farewell, Bob Fernandez, your memory will live on in our hearts forever.