Issue 17.17
ABC News recently shared an article concerning a Pearl Harbor survivor that chose to rejoin his shipmates and be interred aboard the USS Arizona. Written by Jennifer McDermott of the Associated Press, the article discusses veteran Raymond Haerry who survived the attack on Pearl Harbor and died last year at the age of 94. His final wish was to be reunited with his fallen shipmates and be interred aboard the sunken vessel. His granddaughter says the ceremony was “solemn and beautiful.”
The article continues on to recount Haerry’s life; he was “19 years old when bombs started falling on his battleship on Dec. 7, 1941. He never returned to Pearl Harbor while he lived because the memories were too painful. As he neared the end of his life, he told his family he’d like to be laid to rest there.” Haerry served in the Navy for 25 years and retired as a master chief.
Haerry’s granddaughter traveled to Hawaii to attend the ceremony. She handed his urn to divers who then laid it within the ship’s sunken hull. Only USS Arizona survivors are allowed to be interred on the ship. According to the National Park Service, Haerry is the 42nd survivor to rejoin his shipmates. There are now only five remaining USS Arizona survivors.
Spokesman Jay Blount said these types of ceremonies “help bring closure to the families, allow sailors to return to their shipmates and raise awareness of the sacrifices made 75 years ago.” The interment was conducted by the National Park Service and the Navy.
As a funeral director, I found this story to be incredibly inspiring. Regardless of whether you prefer cremation or traditional burial, it is my belief that interment of the deceased is an opportunity to bring family and close friends together to share in a memorable experience. These experiences inspire younger generations, and, in the case of Raymond Haerry, provide historical education and help shape the world into a better place.
We guide you with clarity and compassion at Serenity Funeral Home and the Cremation Center of Southern Utah. Contact us today to explore an interment option that is right for you or your loved one. We are located just off Riverside Dr., at 1316 S. 400 E., Suite A5, in St. George, UT, (435) 986-9100.