GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) – One of the last surviving servicemen from the Attack on Pearl Harbor has passed away Wednesday at the age of 95.
Firman Balza of Green Bay started speaking about Pearl Harbor in 2003, and as he reminded WTAQ on this last Pearl Harbor day, he always had one wish for America.
“Find some way in the world where we can get rid of our weapons and shake hands.”
Over the past decade and a half, Balza shared his message remembering those who paid the ultimate price and reminded students and adults of the need for peace until the day he passed away.
“We haven’t cultivated the fact that we have to learn to get along and live together in a world of peace.”
According to his obituary, Firman was the youngest of 11 boys.
He enlisted in the U.S Navy and served during World War II.
Balza loved the outdoors and enjoyed camping, hunting, and fishing. He became a licensed pilot at the age of 63.
A memorial gathering is scheduled for Saturday at St. Bernard Catholic Church. The gathering will be from 9:00 to 10:50 a.m. A Memorial Mass will begin at 11:00 a.m.
