San Angelo Native Acknowledged for Service at Pearl Harbor

SAN ANGELO, TX - A Native of San Angelo has been acknowledged for his service at Pearl Harbor as this week marks the 75th anniversary of the attack on Dec. 7, 1941.

James Hughes, Petty Officer 2nd Class, graduated from Lake View High School in 2009 and had been assigned to the Navy’s U.S. Pacific Fleet Headquarters (Pearl Harbor).

Hughes is responsible for administrative awards, travel, evaluations and leading Sailors. He has been in the Navy for six years. 

“I like seeing different people every day, different faces,” Hughes said. “It’s never the same day to day.”

Being stationed in Pearl Harbor, often referred to as the gateway to the Pacific in defense circles, means that Hughes is serving in a part of the world -- the Pacific -- that is taking on new importance in America’s national defense strategy.

Hughes reflected on growing up in San Angelo, and how his life changed so much after answering the call to service. He wasn't motivated with where his life was going after graduating from Lake View, and decided he wanted to make a change for himself and his loved ones. 

“I feel honored to serve in such a historically significant place,” Hughes said. “I get to be a part of history. I get to know that I was here at this time.”

Hughes mentioned the significance being at Pearl Harbor for the 75th anniversary, and emphasized the importance of remembering those who died serving here. He added that all members of the military who died in any war should be thought of as well. 

"By remembering that day, you remember those people and give thanks to the ones who were in the service at that time," Hughes said.  He added that by remembering their service, he and others can continue to carry on the lineage of protecting the gateway to the pacific. 

Hughes said Pearl Harbor always upholds the importance of remembering the sacrifices made on Dec 7, 1941. It is seen all year round, but with enthusiasm going into December. 

"It goes all the way throughout the year," he said. "It's not just Pearl Harbor, the battle, but everybody who served prior to us. We don't just remember one day."  

According to Navy officials, the U.S. Pacific Fleet is the world’s largest fleet command, encompassing 100 million square miles, nearly half the Earth’s surface, from Antarctica to the Arctic circle, and from the West Coast of the United States into the Indian Ocean. The U.S. Pacific Fleet consists of approximately 200 ships/submarines, nearly 1,100 aircraft, and more than 140,000 sailors and civilians.

“It’s important for those of us serving in Pearl Harbor today to remember the sacrifice of those who served before us,” said Scott Swift, Commander of the U.S. Pacific fleet. "The important work we do everyday honors those who were here 75 years ago and is a testament to the enduring value of our navy’s mission.“