COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KUSA) — Donald Stratton, one of the last survivors to serve aboard the USS Arizona, died Saturday night in Colorado Springs. He was 97.
Stratton's family posted on Facebook that he passed away peacefully in his sleep in the company of his wife, Velma, and his son, Randy.
The USS Arizona was stationed in Pearl Harbor with the Pacific Fleet when it was sunk by Japanese bombers on Dec. 7, 1941. Stratton was badly burned but recovered from his injuries and returned to Naval service.
The attack killed 1,177 sailors and Marines aboard the USS Arizona.
"One of Donald's final wishes was that people remember Pearl Harbor and the men aboard the USS Arizona. Share their story and never forget those who gave all for our great country," the post read.
Stratton was one of three known USS Arizona survivors still alive, along with Ken Potts and Lou Conter. Another USS Arizona survivor, Lauren Bruner, died last year.
Stratton's memoir about the attack on Pearl Harbor, "All the Gallant Men," was published in 2016.
Sen. Cory Gardner (R-Colorado) released the following statement on Stratton's death:
“Jaime and I are saddened to learn of the passing of Donald Stratton and send our prayers to his family members and loved ones during this time. The first time I met Donald Stratton, he told me, ‘Everyone has to be somewhere.’ Today we know he has joined his fallen shipmates from the USS Arizona in heaven. Donald Stratton spent his life making sure the man who saved his life and others aboard the burning USS Arizona, Joe George, was recognized posthumously for his heroism. Veterans like Donald Stratton are the best this country has to offer and I thank God every day for Americans like them. May God bless this hero, his family, and all who have and continue to serve our country.”
The release also said Sen. Gardner worked with Stratton and Navy to award the Bronze Star Medal posthumously to Joseph George for saving six sailors stationed on the USS Arizona during the attack.
