Freeman Johnson: The Oldest Living Pearl Harbor Survivor Turns 106
At 106 years old, Freeman Johnson is the last living person who was in Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. He marked his birthday in March 2025.
Key Details
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Survivor status: Johnson became the oldest Pearl Harbor survivor after Ira “Ike” Schab died in December 2024 at age 105. As of 2025, only 11 survivors of the attack remain.
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Johnson’s role: He served as a fireman on the USS St. Louis (light cruiser). During the attack, he was inside a steam drum repairing a boiler and was unaware of events topside until after the ship had escaped.
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Post-war service: Johnson later served on the USS Iowa, which transported President Franklin D. Roosevelt to the Tehran Conference in 1943. He also witnessed the Japanese surrender in Tokyo Bay aboard the USS Missouri on September 2, 1945.
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Recognition: Johnson avoided public attention for most of his life but has become a local celebrity as the oldest survivor. He participates in remembrance events and parades.
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Personal life: After the war, he married, had three daughters, and worked in a machinist shop, a convenience store, and delivering meals to seniors until age 90. He lives in Centerville, Massachusetts, with his daughter.
"I didn't feel scared because I was too busy and couldn't see anything," Johnson said of the attack, adding that servicemen were not given information they didn't need.
Johnson’s daughter, Diane Johnson, said she encourages her father to share his story, especially with children who know little about Pearl Harbor.
"He never complained," said Desmond Keogh, chairman of the Cape Cod St. Patrick’s Parade, describing Johnson as representative of his generation's dedication to country.