Michigan State’s Jaxon Kohler got to share the spotlight with an American hero last night: his great-grandfather, Earl “Chuck” Kohler.
Michigan State honors 102-year-old Chuck Kohler, one of 12 remaining Pearl Harbor survivors — who is also Jaxon Kohler’s great grandfather 🥹pic.twitter.com/VnXUjFlVpe
— The Field of 68 (@TheFieldOf68) March 6, 2026
Kohler, 102, is one of only 12 remaining survivors from the attacks on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, when he was just 17 years old. The moment meant a lot to both the Kohler family and Spartans head coach, Tom Izzo.
It was an emotional 24 hours for Jaxon Kohler as he celebrated his senior day – and his great-grandfather. pic.twitter.com/p5ZA6ptVy1
— Spartans Illustrated (@Spartans_Illo) March 6, 2026
Michigan State HC Tom Izzo reflects on the special moment it was to honor veteran Earl “Chuck” Kohler, Jaxon Kohler’s great-grandfather. pic.twitter.com/YSX1IJcEwY
— FOX College Hoops (@CBBonFOX) March 6, 2026
The Internet felt the same.
This is amazing. https://t.co/jlBPG5vAhE
— Adam Housley (@adamhousley) March 6, 2026
This is what college sports is all about man https://t.co/w0Azrzm9f6
— Ron Stewart (@RonStewart_) March 6, 2026
For those who don’t know MSU does this for a veteran before every home game, but to save Mr Kohler for his great grandsons senior night… So cool and heartwarming. Thank you Mr Kohler
— Jeff (@sparty422) March 6, 2026
It’ll be hard for Michigan State to outdo this special Senior Night ever again.
