Pearl Harbor National Memorial
Immerse yourself in a pivotal chapter of American history at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, a significant site of remembrance and reflection located in the Honolulu area. This sacred ground stands as a testament to the events of December 7, 1941, when the United States was propelled into World War II following a surprise military strike by the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service.
The memorial encompasses several distinct sites that tell the comprehensive story of that fateful day and its aftermath. The USS Arizona Memorial, resting atop the sunken battleship, is the park’s emotional heart. The monument bears the names of the 1,177 crewmen who tragically lost their lives during the attack. As visitors gaze into the clear Hawaiian waters, the remnants of the USS Arizona beneath the surface serve as a solemn reminder of the lives cut short.
The USS Oklahoma Memorial pays tribute to another ship that capsized during the attack, taking with it 429 lives. This memorial, with its stark white marble standards representing the lost crewmen, stands as a poignant tribute to those who perished.
The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, housed in Hangars 37 and 79 on Ford Island, provides a comprehensive exploration of aviation history during World War II. The museum houses an impressive collection of aircraft that fought in the Pacific, including the iconic Curtiss P-40 Warhawk and the Japanese Zero, offering a tangible link to the past.
The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center serves as the gateway to the memorial. Through a variety of exhibits, the center presents a detailed account of the events leading up to the attack, the attack itself, and its profound impact on the course of World War II. A pair of theaters screen a moving documentary that sets the stage for the boat trip to the USS Arizona Memorial.
Onboard the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park, visitors can experience life aboard a WWII submarine, fondly known as the “Pearl Harbor Avenger” for its instrumental role in the Pacific theater.
The Pearl Harbor National Memorial not only remembers the lives lost during the attack but also celebrates the resilience and courage shown in the face of adversity. Through its historic sites, the memorial tells the story of a day that changed the world forever, offering visitors a profound opportunity to reflect on the enduring lessons of peace, valor, and unity.