Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Table of Contents

Introduction

Located in Honolulu on the island of Oahu, Hawaii, the Pearl Harbor National Memorial stands as a powerful reminder of one of the most pivotal moments in United States history. This memorial honors the lives lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, and offers visitors a place for remembrance, reflection, and education. As one of the most visited historic sites in Hawaii, the Pearl Harbor National Memorial connects guests to the events that led the United States into the Second World War while highlighting the resilience and sacrifice of the nation. A visit to this solemn and inspiring site offers a meaningful opportunity to learn, pay respects, and gain a deeper understanding of the past.

About the Museum

The Pearl Harbor National Memorial encompasses several key sites that tell the story of the attack and its aftermath. At the heart of the memorial is the USS Arizona Memorial, which sits directly above the sunken remains of the battleship that tragically lost over one thousand crew members during the attack. Visitors reach the memorial by boat, where they can view the wreckage and honor those entombed beneath the waters. The structure is both simple and elegant, offering a peaceful setting for reflection.

In addition to the USS Arizona Memorial, the site includes the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, which features exhibits, historical artifacts, photographs, and personal testimonies that offer insight into the events of December 7, 1941. The museum experience is immersive and informative, allowing visitors to explore the historical context, the human impact, and the global consequences of the attack.

The memorial also connects with nearby historic sites, including the Battleship Missouri Memorial, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park, and the Pacific Aviation Museum. Together, these sites offer a comprehensive and educational look into the Pacific theater of the Second World War and the role of Pearl Harbor in shaping world history.

Interesting Facts

The USS Arizona Memorial sits directly above the sunken remains of the battleship and marks the resting place of more than one thousand sailors and marines.
The memorial was designed by architect Alfred Preis and opened to the public in 1962.
Oil still slowly leaks from the USS Arizona, often referred to as “the black tears of the Arizona.”
The Visitor Center features free exhibits, films, and educational resources about the attack on Pearl Harbor.
The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is part of the United States National Park Service.
Entry to the memorial and the visitor center is free, although reservations for boat tours to the USS Arizona are recommended.
The site attracts over two million visitors annually from around the world.
Survivors of the USS Arizona have the option to have their ashes interred in the sunken ship after their passing, a tradition that honors their service and connection to their fallen comrades.

Photo Gallery

Physical Location

Contact Details

Phone: +1 808 422 3399

Website: nps.gov/perl/index.htm

Facebook: facebook.com/PearlHarborNPS

Conclusion

The Pearl Harbor National Memorial offers a deeply meaningful and memorable experience for visitors of all ages. With its thoughtful exhibits, historic sites, and tranquil atmosphere, the memorial allows guests to pay tribute to those who served and sacrificed while gaining a greater appreciation for the significance of December 7, 1941. It is a place where history comes alive, not through dates and statistics, but through personal stories, powerful imagery, and the enduring spirit of remembrance. A visit to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial is not only an educational journey into the past — it is also a heartfelt tribute to the courage and resilience that define the American spirit.