Who was Herb Weatherwax?  Who wasn’t “Uncle Herb” Weatherwax?  “Uncle Herb” Weatherwax was one of the handful of remaining  local and Native Hawaiian Pearl Harbor military survivors, whom passed away just days after the commemorative 75th anniversary of Peal Harbor in December 2017.  As with this “Greatest Generation”, Uncle Herb’s life was one lead with dignity and grace.

Big Island Native Weatherwax was drafted into the Army in June 1941 and was stationed at Schofield Barracks on Oahu.  On a weekend pass to Honolulu, Weatherwax bore witness to the events of December 7, 1941.   His military career would lead him to facing Germany’s Siegried Line and with his 272nd Regiment advancing into Germany, eventually freeing dying prisoners in labor camps.   After the war, Uncle Herb became a family man, business owner and ever-present Volunteer at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, helping to promote education and understanding.

“It is up to Survivors to perpetuate the history until we are gone. I am always learning from others and thought that someone might pick up one or two things from what I have gone through.” – Herb Weatherwax

On Saturday, June 3 2017, the National Parks Services at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center held a Celebration of Life in honor of their dedicated veteran, friend, uncle, volunteer, educator and legend.

Family, friends and Pearl Harbor Visitor Center Employees gather for the celebration of Life!

An Auspicious date indeed as June 3 2017 would have been Uncle Herb’s 100th Birthday and June 2, 2017 would have been his 66th wedding anniversary!  Uncle Herb’s Wife was in attendance and got up several times to dance hula! 

Musical Entertainment was provided by Navy service members and a delicious spread of local grinds awaited guests prior to the program.

I said delicious right?? Pictured here chicken katsu, kalua pork and lomi salmon from Kimo’s Akamai Catering.

At sunset the beautiful sound of the Pu (conchshell) and a marvelous ‘oli welcomed the guest of honor.  Uncle Herb’s photo was escorted in by the Knights of Columbus and a spirited program of song, dance, photos, and rememberance was to followed.

I would like to believe that the heaven’s and Uncle Herb thanked us and was there in spirit.  Look at that exquisite sunset!  It was truly an honor and a gift to be able to attend this event as a representative for Keawe Adventures. 

Kalei Scoggins

Operations Manager