USS Oklahoma Remains Preservation Project

The USS Oklahoma Remains Preservation Project, also known as USS Oklahoma RIP, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the memory and remains of those who served on the USS Oklahoma, particularly those who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941.

History

The organization was founded with the primary objective of ensuring that the remains of USS Oklahoma sailors could be identified and brought home to their families for proper burial. This mission gained momentum due to personal experiences, such as those of Mary Ann Ryther, who as a child was deeply affected by the loss of her uncle, Navy Patternmaker 1st Class Stanislaw Drwall. The organization's efforts led to continued support for the identification process, which was initially slated to be discontinued around 2015[1].

Mission

• Remains Identification: The project played a crucial role in pressuring the U.S. government to continue the identification program for the USS Oklahoma sailors, using DNA technology to match remains with their families[1].
• Educational and Entertainment Activities: Over time, the USS Oklahoma Remains Preservation Project expanded its mission to include providing educational and entertainment activities for U.S. veterans and their families[4].

Achievements

Thanks to the persistence of this organization and advancements in DNA technology, nearly all of the 429 sailors who lost their lives on the USS Oklahoma have been identified and laid to rest with military honors. The most recent identification was that of David Walker from Norfolk, Virginia, in 2023[1]. This has brought closure and peace to many families who had waited for decades to honor their loved ones properly[3].

Leadership

The organization's leadership included Harold and Mary Ann Ryther, who were both part of the founding efforts. They served on the board from 2014 to 2020[4]. However, recent governance practices and board compositions have not been formally updated or reported in available sources.

Impact

The USS Oklahoma Remains Preservation Project has not only contributed significantly to the identification and dignified burial of USS Oklahoma sailors but also demonstrates the lasting impact of personal and community efforts in preserving historical memory and providing support to veterans and their families.

[1] https://www.tribtoday.com/news/local-news/2024/12/warren-residents-work-assists-in-identifying-uss-oklahoma-sailors/ [2] https://www.history.navy.mil/our-collections/photography/wars-and-events/world-war-ii/pearl-harbor-raid/post-attack-ship-salvage/salvage-of-uss-oklahoma--1942-1944.html [3] https://www.nationalww2museum.org/war/articles/recovered-and-identified-soldiers-uss-oklahoma [4] https://www.guidestar.org/profile/47-2240618 [5] https://dpaa-mil.experience.crmforce.mil/Projects/s/wwii/ussoklahoma