Dec. 7, 1941. The attack on Pearl Harbor killed 2,403 Americans and forever changed families like SK3 Roberto Garcia’s. In recognition of Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, we honor those who served and the families who continue to tell their stories. | USAA

More than 2,400 troops were killed when Japan attacked Pearl Harbor 84 years ago. Today, only 12 survivors of that attack are still alive. That attack launched the United States into World War II. Among the soldiers who joined the fight was Del Thielke, who spent more than four years at war and at sea, aboard an aircraft carrier in the South Pacific. Looking back on his service, he credits his faith with why he is still able to talk about his experiences: “I believe God was guiding me for 4 year