With deep sorrow, we honor the life of Pearl Harbor survivor Clarence

 With deep sorrow, we honor the life of Pearl Harbor survivor Clarence “Bud” R. Lane, who passed away peacefully at his home in Melbourne, Florida, on February 21, 2026, at 100 years old, surrounded by his family. With his passing, another living witness to one of the most pivotal mornings in history has gone quiet. 🕊️🇺🇸⚓

Bud was only 16 when he enlisted in the U.S. Navy out of Kansas City, Missouri. Still a teenager, he stepped forward to serve something greater than himself. After completing Aviation Machinist’s School in Chicago, he arrived at Pearl Harbor in October 1941 and was assigned to Patrol Squadron 21 at Ford Island. None of them could have imagined how quickly the course of their lives would change.

On the morning of December 7, 1941, Bud was heading out when the first explosions shook the island. Aircraft filled the sky, and within moments Ford Island was under attack. A bomb struck the paint locker in his hangar, setting it ablaze. As torpedoes skimmed low across the water and planes roared overhead, Bud ran toward the chaos to help. He later remembered how unprepared they felt, facing the sudden reality of war with little more than courage and determination. In a single morning, his youth gave way to responsibility, resilience, and resolve.

Bud went on to serve nearly the entire war in the Pacific. With Patrol Squadron 44, he flew and maintained PBY aircraft, stepping into any role where he was needed. He helped establish radio controlled target drone operations on Oahu and later volunteered for duty in England. He did not seek recognition, only the opportunity to serve faithfully.

After the war, his love for aviation remained constant. From working in the Kansas oil fields to building a career with Boeing Aircraft Company, Bud’s life stayed connected to the skies. Even in retirement, he continued flying through Microsoft Flight Simulator, often returning to the familiar markings of VP 44 and smiling as he called it a grand old bird.

For many years, Bud carried his memories of Pearl Harbor quietly. But in 2001, at the 60th anniversary, he returned to Ford Island. Standing on the same ground where everything had changed, he finally shared his experience. His voice trembled, and his family saw the emotion that had lived in his heart for decades. Even after sixty years, the weight of that day was still present.

Bud Lane lived a full century defined by service, humility, and steady strength. It is believed that only a small number of Pearl Harbor survivors remain. Each passing reminds us that while time moves forward, remembrance is up to us.

Today, we pause to honor his life, his courage, and his quiet devotion to his country.

Fair winds and following seas, Bud. 🇺🇸⚓🕊️