106-Year-Old Pearl Harbor Survivor Celebrates Birthday

Freeman Johnson, one of the oldest known living Pearl Harbor survivors, marked his 106th birthday with loved ones in Massachusetts.

Mar. 19, 2026 at 11:56pm

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Freeman Johnson, a Navy Machinist First Class who survived the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, recently celebrated his 106th birthday with friends and family in Centerville, Massachusetts. Johnson is believed to be one of the oldest living Pearl Harbor survivors. State and local officials honored Johnson on his milestone birthday, presenting him with citations from the governor, lieutenant governor, and the Executive Office of Veterans Services.

Why it matters

As one of the few remaining survivors of the Pearl Harbor attack, Freeman Johnson's story and longevity serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the Greatest Generation. Honoring Johnson's 106th birthday highlights the importance of preserving the history and experiences of those who lived through World War II.

The details

On December 7, 1941, Johnson was serving aboard the USS St. Louis at Pearl Harbor. He was tasked with reassembling boiler #7 before the ship could get underway. By the time he got topside, the USS St. Louis had already sailed. Friends and loved ones gathered this week at the Barnstable Adult Community Center in Barnstable, Massachusetts, to celebrate Johnson's birthday. State and local officials, including the Massachusetts Secretary of Veterans Services, presented Johnson with official citations from the governor, lieutenant governor, and the Executive Office of Veterans Services.

  • On December 7, 1941, Johnson was serving aboard USS St. Louis at Pearl Harbor.
  • On March 11, 2026, Freeman Johnson celebrated his 106th birthday.

The players

Freeman Johnson

A Navy Machinist First Class who is one of the oldest known living survivors of the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941.

Diane Johnson

The daughter of Freeman Johnson, who wrote a letter to WCVB about her father's upcoming 106th birthday.

Eric Goralnick

The Massachusetts Secretary of Veterans Services, who presented Johnson with official citations from the governor and lieutenant governor.

Maura Healey

The Governor of Massachusetts.

Kim Driscoll

The Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts.

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The takeaway

Freeman Johnson's 106th birthday celebration is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and experiences of those who lived through the attack on Pearl Harbor. As one of the few remaining survivors, honoring Johnson's longevity helps preserve the history and legacy of the Greatest Generation.