As of early 2026, there are believed to be about 12 known survivors of the December 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor still alive, all of them centenarians (100 years old or more).

How the number has changed

Over the decades, the number of Pearl Harbor survivors has steadily declined as the generation ages. In 1991, around 2,000 survivors attended the 50th anniversary commemoration in Hawaii, but by the 2020s, only a few dozen were still living, and only a handful could travel to the annual ceremony. By late 2024, about 15 survivors were known to be alive, but several have passed away since then, leaving roughly 12 as of the 84th anniversary in December 2025.

Why the number is so low now

The attack happened in 1941, so anyone who was a young sailor or soldier then would now be at least 104–105 years old in 2026. Most of the remaining survivors are in their mid‑100s and in frail health, which is why, for the first time in many years, no Pearl Harbor survivors were able to attend the official remembrance ceremony in Hawaii in December 2025.

Who is still alive (as of late 2025)

Public reports from late 2025 list about 12 survivors, though exact names and locations are often kept private for privacy and security reasons. One of the last well‑known survivors, Ira “Ike” Schab, died in December 2025 at age 105; he was one of the last few who still made public appearances before his passing. The remaining survivors are scattered across the U.S., mostly in their home states, and many are no longer able to travel long distances.

How the legacy is being preserved

With so few survivors left, the focus has shifted to preserving their stories through oral histories, family groups, and museums. The National Park Service and the National WWII Museum have recorded hundreds of interviews with Pearl Harbor veterans, and these are now used in education and exhibits. Groups like the Sons and Daughters of Pearl Harbor Survivors continue to share their parents’ and grandparents’ experiences in schools and at memorial events, ensuring that the memory of Pearl Harbor lives on even after the last survivor is gone.

Bottom line: As of early 2026, there are approximately 12 Pearl Harbor survivors still living, all over 100 years old, and none are expected to attend the main Hawaii remembrance in the near future due to age and health.