Pearl Harbor Remembrance Marks First Year Without Survivors

The recent remembrance ceremony for the attack on Pearl Harbor marked a poignant milestone as it was the first time no survivors attended the event. Leo George Allard, one of the last remaining witnesses, passed away on November 7, 2025, at the age of 103. His death highlights the dwindling number of individuals who experienced the attack firsthand, leaving only about a dozen survivors, all over the age of 100.

Allard, a Navy first gunner’s mate, was aboard the USS Reid during the assault on December 7, 1941, which resulted in the deaths of more than 2,300 American service members and civilians. This attack served as a pivotal moment in history, propelling the United States into World War II. As the years progress, the absence of survivors at commemorative events becomes increasingly significant, reflecting a broader transition in how society remembers and honors these historical events.

Legacy of Leo Allard

Allard became a familiar face at veterans’ events in the Pacific Northwest. His story gained renewed attention in 2022 when the Seattle Seahawks honored him during a home game, introducing him to tens of thousands of fans as a distinguished Pearl Harbor survivor. His granddaughter, Danielle Pettit, expressed her pride during the event, stating, “I’m super emotional. I’m probably going to start crying. But he deserves all of it.” Her heartfelt testimony reflected the deep admiration and respect held for Allard and others like him.

The loss of Allard underscores a significant shift anticipated by historians and veterans’ organizations. As the number of survivors continues to decline, communities are turning to museums, oral histories, and digital archives to preserve their legacies. This proactive approach aims to ensure that the stories and experiences of these veterans are not forgotten.

Commemoration and Funeral Details

The absence of survivors at this year’s ceremony served as a stark reminder of the accelerating loss of firsthand witnesses to one of America’s defining historical events. To honor Allard’s life and service, a funeral will be held on December 17 at Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent, Washington, where he will receive military honors.

With Allard’s passing, the nation loses yet another vital connection to the events of that fateful morning in 1941. As the story of Pearl Harbor continues to be told, it is imperative that communities come together to remember those who served and sacrificed, ensuring their memories endure for generations to come.