Pearl Harbor remains a draw for tourists in Hawaii.
Pearl Harbor is more than a page in a history book. It was a pivotal moment American history that would change the face of a war and the heart of a nation. To pay homage to the fallen, millions of tourists from all over the world come to Hawaii to visit these memorials that serve as reverent reminders.
The Arizona Memorial
In the early morning hours of December 7, 1941, Pearl Harbor was bombed by Japanese Navel Forces. The casualties were numerous. The USS Arizona sunk in just seconds after it was struck, killing its crew of 1,177. The Hawaii Parks and Wildlife Department operate the memorial that was erected over the remains in 1961 to honor the 2,250 people that perished in the Pear Harbor attack, including the crew who remain entombed in the sunken ship. This tour includes a brief documentary and the boat ride to and from the Arizona Memorial.
USS Missouri Battlefield Memorial
"Mighty Mo" was commissioned June 11 1944, and would ultimately provide the setting for the Japanese surrender in September 1945. This event marked the end of World War II. This historic ship would go on to serve in the Korean and Gulf Wars, until it was finally decomissioned in 1992. Seven years later the USS Missouri Battlefield Memorial opened to the public. Visitors can now take a guided tour in the victorious footsteps of General MacArthur.
USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park
The USS Bowfin submarine was launched on December 7, 1942, and went on to sink 44 Japanese ships, thereby earning the nickname "The Pearl Harbor Avenger". It was brought to the Harbor in 1980 and docked next to the USS Arizona Memorial Visitor Center. It opened to the public a year later. Visitors can take a guided tour of the submarine itself using a walk-man style headset.
The separate 10,000 square foot museum illustrates the history of the U.S. submarine service. Exhibits include a one of a kind display of a Poseidon C-3 missile.
Pacific Aviation Museum
Hanger 37 is a 42,000 square foot seaplane hanger that survived the Pearl Harbor attack in 1941, and is located on Ford Island. It pays tribute to the first aviation battlefield that scarred the nation in exhibits, sound effects and a movie depicting the events of that day, which includes historic footage.
The USS Oklahoma Memorial
The USS Oklahoma capsized in 12 minutes after nine torpedoes hit "The Okie". Unbelievably 32 crewmen were rescued two days later from the overturned hull, but 429 died in the attack. Thanks to the dedicated interest of those who felt "The Okie" and her sacrifice had long been overlooked, on December 7, 2007 the memorial was erected to honor those who perished. This memorial is also located on Ford Island.
Special Considerations
There are bag restrictions in place at the memorials, which means no personal bags are allowed. This includes handbags, diaper bags, backpacks and the like. Only a small camera is generally permitted. If a tour bus is taken to the venue, it is strongly advised not to leave valuables on the bus.
Tags: Pearl Harbor, Arizona Memorial, Battlefield Memorial, Ford Island, guided tour, Harbor attack