Wanda
Sartain
2025 Pearl Harbor Day Keynote Speaker
Wanda Sartain began her journey of service and perseverance at an early age.
Born in Placer County, California, and raised in Citrus Heights, Wanda Sartain began her journey of service and perseverance at an early age. She joined the Job Corps in Albuquerque, New Mexico, from 1966 to 1967, and soon after, enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1968.
Wanda served honorably until 1971, achieving the rank of E-5, Second-Class Petty Officer.
In 1971, she married fellow Navy veteran James Perry Sartain, Jr. Together, they built a loving family, raising five children, four of whom proudly followed in their parents’ footsteps to serve in the military.
While raising her family, Wanda attended Maricopa Community Colleges, earning three Associate of Arts degrees, exemplifying her dedication to education and personal growth.
She and her husband, Perry, restored the mini USS Arizona Battleship model, used in the movie Tora, Tora, Tora. She continues to support the USS Arizona memorial to this day and believes in preserving our nation’s history.
Worked in the transportation industry
Wanda worked in the transportation industry for over 30 years, driving school and charter buses. Her passion for mentoring youth also led to over two decades of service with the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps, where she worked with pre-teens and teenagers ages 11 to 18, alongside fellow adult volunteers.
Continues to support the USS Arizona memorial
She and her husband, Perry, restored the mini USS Arizona Battleship model, used in the movie Tora, Tora, Tora. She continues to support the USS Arizona memorial to this day and believes in preserving our nation’s history.