Whidbey Island Naval Air Station will host a commemoration of the Battle of Midway at the Crescent Harbor Marina boat deck on the Seaplane Base, at 10 a.m. Monday, June 4.

Regarded as the turning point in the Pacific during World War II, U.S. Navy carrier strike forces, augmented by shore-based bombers and torpedo planes, decisively defeated an Imperial Japanese navy carrier task force during the Battle of Midway, June 4 to 7, 1942. These actions prevented Japanese forces from capturing Midway Island and marked the dawn of the Navy’s global prominence and the coming of age of carrier aviation.

Honored guest is retired Cmdr. Harry Ferrier, a 17-year old radioman/gunner  who flew into battle on June 4, 1942 with Torpedo Squadron 8 in a Grumman TBF-1 “Avenger” and is now the remaining survivor of the aerial battle. He will share his recollections of the battle. Ferrier is a longtime Oak Harbor resident and former Island County Auditor.

Students from Oak Harbor High School and the NAS Whidbey Island Color Guard will join Capt. Jay Johnston in this historic event. The ceremony will culminate with a jet flyover and wreath-laying performed in concert with other Navy activities across the United States. Guests are invited to a reception in Simard Hall.

Sentries at the Maui and Torpedo gates will direct members of the public to the ceremony location.