Counting My Blessings: The Autobiography of a Native Hawaiian Pearl Harbor Survivor

by Herb Weatherwax

From his time in a Honolulu street gang to surviving the attack on Pearl Harbor to disarming bombs across Europe, native Hawaiian Herb Weatherwax's life story is full of mischief, adventure and travel. Counting his blessings along the way, Herb recalls what it was like to grow up in Hawaii, the trials and tribulations of his youth, his World War II experience, and his eventual transition to business owner, family man, and community leader and volunteer. Written in his own words, Uncle Herb, as he is affectionately known, reveals his humble heart, sense of humor, and endearing personality.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, American History

56 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2013

Reviews

[Laurie DelaCruz · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick, easy read. I enjoyed reading about a native Hawaiian Pearl Harbor survivor. His childhood was grim, and he lived on the streets for a period. But his story shows how making right choices and taking responsibility for your life can make a drastic change in your future. Written in a style like he is talking to you in his living room, which I really liked.

[Rebecca Young · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although this is not a cleverly-written book high on the scale of literary quality, it is a simply-written autobiography of the account of Herb Weatherwax, a Native Hawaiian Pearl Harbor survivor, and thus makes a solid contribution to the history of our country. It's a simple book, not long--56 pages in length--Written by the author in his very advanced years, as told to Cliff Reid, who put the words and thoughts of Weatherwax into the written form. Mr. Weatherwax still visits Pearl Harbor several times a week and talks with visitors about his life experiences. We were fortunate to see him there on our visit in March, and so became intrigued about his story and purchased his book. Not only does his story share a personal look at the tragedy of Pearl Harbor, but it also gives the reader a look at life on the Hawaiian Islands in the early 1900s--A very different place than what it is today. If you enjoy history, or Hawaii, you will appreciate this book.

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Bought this at the Pearl harbor gift shop. I have to say I had high hopes for it and it kind of just turned out mediocre. Im not saying Herb didn’t go through and I have a profound respect for his sacrifice — it just wasn’t the book I was expecting when I purchased so I’m giving it a 3 star rating.

[Cynthia Egbert · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is not the most well written piece of writing but it is dear to my heart and I love this book. It really sounds like Mr. Weatherwax speaking and that makes it priceless. I had the pleasure to spend an hour or so talking with him and hearing some of the stories from this book directly from him and I am so grateful that we were given such a blessed opportunity. We need to make certain that we do not forget all that this generation did for us!

[Jonathan · Rating 3 out of 5]

A short, interesting story told in an informal, intimate way. I'm proud to have met Herb in 2014 at the 73rd anniversary of Pearl Harbor.

[Joshua De · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bought this in Hawaii after visiting Pearl Harbor, ended up finishing on a beach still in Hawaii.

Herbs story, from the gecko 🦎, seemed to be so overwhelmingly challenging - it was impressive to see him persevere and fail and preserve and fail and so on.

Unique plot, unique guy, unique vibes - thoroughly enjoyed

[Jane Rattray · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inspiring story of a man who truly learned how to make lemonade from life’s lemons. His account of being in combat in Germany powerfully illustrated the realty that war truly is a version of Hell. A quick read with a powerful message!

[Jim Swike · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing life, a Pearl Harbor Survivor. He continued with a successful business and back to Pearl Harbor. Enjoy!

[Matt Haynes · Rating 4 out of 5]

We met the author's wife at Pearl Harbor, so this was a neat book to read.

[Kara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a good short read. We had the honor of meeting Mr. Weatherwax while visiting Pearl Harbor. He was so gracious and generous with his time and stories.

[Kate · Rating 2 out of 5]

Herbert Weatherwax had a really long, complex and rewarding life. Reading his story was a good companion read to follow Shark Dialogues, I do not regret the read at all, but not an excellent book.

[Bonnie_blu · Rating 4 out of 5]

This slim volume of less than 60 pages, captures a time in Hawaiian history that is rarely described. I enjoyed Mr. Weatherwax's relating of his early life as a poor child and the choices he made, some good and some harmful to his wellbeing. Also, his experiences in the military are interesting, and his fight against alcoholism is inspiring. His wife's patience and love were instrumental in him finding a way to beat alcohol.

[David Devine · Rating 3 out of 5]

A decent autobiography of a Pearl harbor Survivor. An easy read.

[Rosa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the honor of meeting Mr. Weatherwax this summer at the USS Arizona. His life story very is interesting.