SALT LAKE CITY — As Americans across the country paused to reflect on the anniversary of Pearl Harbor, Utahns gathered in cemeteries, homes and community spaces to honor the lives lost and the generation forever shaped by the attack on Dec. 7, 1941.
The strike on the U.S. naval base in Hawaii killed more than 2,300 American service members and marked the moment the United States formally entered World War II. Eighty-four years later, the memories of that day continue to resonate deeply with families in Utah who carry personal ties to those who served.
Remembering Utah’s Connection to Pearl Harbor
On Sunday, local historian Ron Fox visited the Salt Lake City Cemetery to pay tribute to Captain Mervyn S. Bennion, commander aboard the USS West Virginia. Fox placed American flags around Bennion’s grave, reflecting on how the tragedy of Pearl Harbor shaped his own family’s history.
“It ties so close to my beginnings,” Fox said. “My parents were part of the Greatest Generation, who endured the hardships of World War II. Remembering these stories matters.”
According to military archives from the U.S. Naval History and Heritage Command, Captain Bennion remained at his post on the USS West Virginia as Japanese bombs struck repeatedly. Though gravely wounded, he continued issuing commands and ultimately died while leading his crew.
“He died at his post,” Fox said. “Those people sacrificed their lives for our freedoms. We need to remember that.”
Families Carry Forward Their Stories
The remembrance holds special meaning for Jenna Tiffany Crump, a member of the Sons and Daughters of Pearl Harbor Survivors organization. Her father, James Tiffany, served on the USS West Virginia and helped steer the battleship during the attack for Captain Bennion.
Crump’s father is buried in Missouri, far from Utah. So she honors his service by visiting Bennion’s grave instead.
“My father respected him deeply,” Crump said. “I can’t bring flowers to my father in Missouri, so I bring them to his captain.”
For families like the Crumps, preserving the personal stories behind Pearl Harbor is essential. They want the younger generations to remember not only the historic attack but also the courage of the individuals who lived through it.
Eighty-four years later, Fox, Crump and many Utahns continue to keep that legacy alive.
“I don’t want it to die with us,” Crump said. “Just don’t forget. Don’t forget.”
For broader historical context on the attack and its significance, see the National WWII Museum.
