Pearl Harbor untold incredible story, surviving what seemed impossible

Here’s the incredible story of  Chief Petty Officer John William Finn, one of the few servicemen who performed extraordinary acts of bravery during the attack on Pearl Harbor, surviving what seemed impossible.

John Finn was stationed at Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, on December 7, 1941, when Japanese planes began their devastating assault. When the attack started, Finn was still in bed, but as soon as he heard the sound of aircraft and explosions, he rushed out to see what was happening. Realizing the base was under attack, he ran to the nearest makeshift armory.

Without waiting for orders, Finn dragged a .50 caliber machine gun out to an open area, completely exposed to enemy fire. He mounted the gun on a tripod and, despite being a sitting target for the Japanese planes, began firing at the incoming aircraft. For more than two hours, Finn held his position, shooting at the enemy planes with fierce determination.

During this time, he was repeatedly wounded by bomb fragments and bullets. Shrapnel tore through his flesh, and he sustained serious injuries to his arms, legs, and chest. Despite the intense pain and severe wounds, Finn refused to abandon his post.

It wasn’t until he was finally physically incapacitated that others convinced him to seek medical attention. Even after being treated, Finn returned to help rearm and support the defense efforts.

Finn’s actions saved countless lives that day, and for his extraordinary heroism, he was awarded the Medal of Honor, the first such honor for action during World War II. His story became a symbol of courage and resilience, as he survived against all odds, enduring pain and danger beyond belief​(