The U.S.S. Arizona Memorial, Hawaii

This week marks 69 years since the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor. December 7, 1941 – A day that will live in infamy. It was a beautiful sunny Sunday morning and sailors were beginning to prepare for the day ahead. This is Hawaii after all. What better place to be stationed? All that suddenly changed when the Japanese began bombing the harbor just before 0755 hour. In just 2 hours, the Japanese sunk or severely damaged 8 battleships, 3 destroyers, and 3 light cruisers. The Navy and Marines lost over 2,000 men.



Hawaiian vacations are filled with fun, sun, swaying palm trees, and days spent lounging on beautiful beaches. But, visitors who come to Oahu should take time to include a trip to the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial. Because of the attack, American officially entered World War II. As a nation, we are forever grateful for the sacrifices and bravery that occurred here 69 years ago.

The National Park Service operates the memorial. This year, the Park Service opened up a re-vamped museum which includes mementos from that fateful day along with interviews of Pearl Harbor survivors. Some of the men and women working at the museum are Pearl Harbor survivors. They are willing to share with you stories of that day and their experiences in the War.

After a short film, you will board a boat that will take you to the U.S.S. Arizona. A visit to the U.S.S. Arizona is a moving experience. When you arrive at the memorial, you are standing on hallowed ground. The memorial is built right above the actual ship. When the Arizona sunk, she took 1,177 members of her crew with her. This is a solemn and reflective place. There are plaques listing the names of the men who were lost. You may see oil seeping from the ship or see World War II veterans throw leis into the harbor to remember their lost friends.



The USS Missouri, USS Bowfin, and Pacific Aviation Museum are also located at Pearl Harbor. All are worth your time. It is only fitting that the USS Missouri is permanently docked at Pearl Harbor. We entered the war when Japan attacked Pearl Harbor. The Japanese officially surrendered on the deck of the USS Missouri.

For more information about visiting the U.S.S Arizona, visit the following website: www.nps.gov/valr