Pearl Harbor Survivor Ira ‘Ike’ Schab Passes Away at 105
BREAKING: Ira ‘Ike’ Schab, a revered survivor of the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack, has died at the age of 105. According to his daughter, Kimberlee Heinrichs, Schab passed away early Saturday at his home in Beaverton, Oregon, surrounded by family.
Schab’s death marks a significant loss, as he was one of the last remaining survivors of the surprise assault that killed over 2,400 American servicemen and thrust the United States into World War II. With his passing, fewer than a dozen veterans from that fateful day remain.
Born on July 4, 1920, in Chicago, Schab enlisted in the Navy at age 18, following his father’s footsteps. As a sailor aboard the USS Dobbin, he experienced the horror of the Pearl Harbor attack firsthand. In an emotional reflection earlier this year, Schab recalled the shocking moment on December 7, 1941: “We were pretty startled. Startled and scared to death,” he said, describing his frantic efforts to assist in manning anti-aircraft guns during the onslaught.
In recent years, Schab made it a priority to honor his fallen comrades by attending annual memorials in Hawaii. Just last year, he dedicated weeks to build up his strength to stand and salute at the commemoration, stating, “To pay honor to the guys that didn’t make it.” However, he was unable to attend this year’s observance due to health issues, a poignant reminder of the dwindling number of those who witnessed the attack.
Throughout the war, Schab served valiantly in the Pacific theater, participating in critical operations in locations such as the New Hebrides, Mariana Islands, and Okinawa, Japan. After the war, he transitioned into a successful career in aerospace engineering, contributing to the Apollo spaceflight program with General Dynamics.
Schab’s legacy extends beyond his military service; his son also served in the Navy and retired as a commander. In a heartfelt address at a 2022 ceremony, Schab urged the public to remember and honor the sacrifices made by those at Pearl Harbor, emphasizing, “Remember what they’re here for. Remember and honor those that are left. They did a hell of a job.”
The passing of Ira ‘Ike’ Schab not only marks the end of an era but also serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made during a pivotal moment in world history. As the nation reflects on his life and service, the call to remember the heroes of Pearl Harbor grows ever more urgent.
As the number of Pearl Harbor survivors diminishes, historians and veterans’ organizations are working to document their stories, ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten. The latest developments surrounding the remaining survivors and their commemorative efforts are expected to continue capturing national attention.
