WWII Veteran Honored Aboard USS Midway

98-year-old Charles Araiza surprised as guest of honor at San Diego museum

Jan. 29, 2026 at 10:31pm

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A visit to the USS Midway Museum in downtown San Diego turned into a surprise honor on Thursday for 98-year-old World War II veteran Charles Araiza. Araiza, who served in the U.S. Army's 11th Airborne Division and helped rebuild Hiroshima, was presented with an Army of Occupation Medal and a U.S. flag that had flown over the USS Midway during a ceremony on the flight deck.

Why it matters

The story highlights the ongoing efforts to recognize and honor the service of WWII veterans, many of whom are now in their 90s. It also showcases the USS Midway Museum's role in preserving military history and providing meaningful experiences for veterans and their families.

The details

During the ceremony, retired Navy Capt. Steve Gilmore presented Araiza with the Army of Occupation Medal and the U.S. flag. Araiza, who owned an auto upholstery business in San Diego for over 30 years, also helped upholster the seat on the F-14 used in the filming of 'Top Gun: Maverick'.

  • The surprise ceremony took place on Thursday, January 30, 2026.
  • Araiza served in the U.S. Army's 11th Airborne Division during World War II and helped rebuild Hiroshima following the atomic bombing on August 6, 1945.

The players

Charles Araiza

A 98-year-old World War II veteran who served in the U.S. Army's 11th Airborne Division and helped rebuild Hiroshima after the war.

Steve Gilmore

A retired Navy captain who presented Araiza with the Army of Occupation Medal and a U.S. flag that had flown over the USS Midway.

USS Midway Museum

A museum in downtown San Diego that houses the historic aircraft carrier USS Midway.

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What they’re saying

“Biggest ski boat I've ever seen in my life”

— Charles Araiza (nbcsandiego.com)

“My daughter keeps saying to me, 'You're going to be a celebrity'”

— Charles Araiza (nbcsandiego.com)

“Incredible. I just don't believe it's happening”

— Charles Araiza (nbcsandiego.com)

“The ones that really deserve the attention are still there”

— Charles Araiza (nbcsandiego.com)

What’s next

The USS Midway Museum plans to continue hosting events and ceremonies to honor WWII veterans and preserve their stories for future generations.

The takeaway

This story serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by WWII veterans and the importance of recognizing their service, even decades later. The surprise ceremony aboard the USS Midway highlights the ongoing efforts to honor these heroes and ensure their legacies are not forgotten.