The USS Arizona Memorial is one of the most iconic and revered landmarks in the United States, attracting millions of visitors each year. Located on the island of Oahu, Hawaii, this memorial stands as a poignant tribute to the lives lost during the historic attack on Pearl Harbor. In this article, we will delve into the history of the USS Arizona Memorial, its significance, and what makes it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in American history.
Introduction to the USS Arizona Memorial
The USS Arizona Memorial is situated above the sunken hull of the USS Arizona, a battleship that was destroyed during the surprise attack by the Japanese on December 7, 1941. This attack drew the United States into World War II and resulted in the loss of over 2,400 lives. The memorial was designed by architect Alfred Preis and took approximately one year to complete, with its dedication ceremony taking place on May 30, 1962. The memorial’s design is a 184-foot-long structure that spans the width of the sunken ship, with a center portion that is open to the sky, symbolizing the void left by the loss of the ship and its crew.
Historical Significance of the USS Arizona
The USS Arizona was a Pennsylvania-class battleship that was commissioned in 1915 and served in both World War I and World War II. On the day of the attack, the USS Arizona was moored in Ford Island’s berth F-7, alongside several other battleships. At 8:06 a.m., a bomb struck the ship, causing a massive explosion that killed 1,177 crew members instantly. The ship sank in just nine minutes, taking the majority of its crew with it. The USS Arizona’s loss was the largest loss of life of any ship during the attack on Pearl Harbor, and its sinking played a significant role in the United States’ entry into World War II.
The Design and Construction of the Memorial
The USS Arizona Memorial was designed to be a place of solemn reflection and remembrance. The structure is supported by a series of concrete columns that do not touch the ship’s hull, as a sign of respect for the crew members who are still entombed within. The memorial’s white concrete structure is designed to resemble the snow-capped mountains of Arizona, symbolizing the ship’s namesake state. The interior of the memorial features an enclosure where visitors can view the ship’s bell, which was recovered from the wreck and serves as a poignant reminder of the lives lost.
The Island of Oahu: Home to the USS Arizona Memorial
Oahu, the third-largest island in Hawaii, is home to the state capital Honolulu and the famous Waikiki Beach. The island is also steeped in history, with the USS Arizona Memorial being one of its most significant attractions. Located on the southern coast of Oahu, the memorial is situated within the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, which also includes the USS Missouri Battleship, the USS Oklahoma Memorial, and the Pacific Aviation Museum.
Visiting the USS Arizona Memorial
Visitors to the USS Arizona Memorial can take a ferry to the memorial, which departs from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. The visitor center offers a free admission museum that showcases the history of the attack on Pearl Harbor, as well as a theater that screens a documentary about the events of December 7, 1941. The memorial itself is open to the public and offers a self-guided tour, allowing visitors to pay their respects to the crew members who lost their lives.
Respecting the Memorial and Its History
The USS Arizona Memorial is a place of great historical significance and solemn reflection. Visitors are asked to respect the memorial and its history by dressing modestly, turning off their phones, and refraining from taking pictures inside the memorial. The memorial is also a final resting place for many of the crew members who lost their lives, and visitors are asked to treat the site with dignity and respect.
Conclusion
The USS Arizona Memorial is a poignant and historic landmark that stands as a tribute to the lives lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor. Located on the island of Oahu, Hawaii, this memorial is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in American history. With its rich history, stunning design, and sobering significance, the USS Arizona Memorial is a place that will leave a lasting impression on all who visit. Whether you are a history buff, a veteran, or simply someone looking to pay their respects, the USS Arizona Memorial is a destination that is sure to inspire and educate.
| USS Arizona Memorial Facts | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Pearl Harbor, Oahu, Hawaii |
| Design | 184-foot-long white concrete structure |
| Construction | 1960-1961 |
| Dedication | May 30, 1962 |
- The USS Arizona Memorial is one of the most visited attractions in Hawaii, with over 1.8 million visitors per year.
- The memorial is a popular destination for veterans, history buffs, and anyone looking to pay their respects to the crew members who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor.
The USS Arizona Memorial is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by the crew members who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor. As a symbol of American history and resilience, this memorial stands as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of those who served on the USS Arizona. By visiting the memorial and learning about its history, we can honor the memories of those who lost their lives and ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten.
What is the significance of the USS Arizona Memorial?
The USS Arizona Memorial is a historic landmark located on the island of Oahu, Hawaii, that honors the lives lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. The memorial is situated above the sunken hull of the USS Arizona, which was one of the battleships that was severely damaged during the attack, resulting in the loss of 1,177 lives. The memorial serves as a tribute to the crew members who perished, and it has become a symbol of American history and a reminder of the sacrifices made during World War II.
The memorial’s design and construction are also significant, as it was built to be a permanent and respectful tribute to the crew members of the USS Arizona. The structure is designed to float above the sunken ship, without touching it, to avoid disturbing the wreck and the remains of the crew members. The memorial features a white concrete structure with a series of arches and a central plaza, where visitors can pay their respects and reflect on the events of that day. The memorial has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hawaii, with over 1.5 million visitors per year, and it continues to serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of peace and the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.
How was the USS Arizona Memorial built?
The USS Arizona Memorial was designed by architect Alfred Preis and constructed between 1960 and 1962. The construction process was complex and required careful planning to ensure that the memorial did not disturb the sunken hull of the USS Arizona. The memorial’s design features a series of concrete arches that are supported by a system of piers and beams, which are anchored to the sea floor. The structure is designed to be self-sustaining and does not rely on the sunken ship for support.
The construction of the memorial was a significant undertaking that required the collaboration of engineers, architects, and contractors. The project was funded by the federal government and the state of Hawaii, and it was completed at a cost of approximately $563,000. The memorial was officially dedicated on May 30, 1962, in a ceremony attended by government officials, military personnel, and families of the USS Arizona crew members. Since its dedication, the memorial has undergone several renovations and restorations to ensure its preservation and to improve the visitor experience.
What can visitors expect to see and experience at the USS Arizona Memorial?
Visitors to the USS Arizona Memorial can expect to see a poignant and powerful tribute to the lives lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The memorial features a series of exhibits and displays that tell the story of the USS Arizona and its crew, including photographs, artifacts, and personal stories. Visitors can also view the sunken hull of the USS Arizona, which is visible through an opening in the memorial’s floor. The memorial’s central plaza features a wall of names, which lists the names of all the crew members who perished during the attack.
In addition to the exhibits and displays, visitors can also participate in a variety of programs and activities, including guided tours, audio tours, and special events. The memorial offers a range of educational programs for students and adults, including lectures, workshops, and living history programs. Visitors can also take a boat tour of Pearl Harbor, which includes a stop at the USS Arizona Memorial, as well as other historic sites, such as the USS Missouri and the Pacific Aviation Museum. The memorial’s staff and volunteers are dedicated to providing a respectful and informative experience for all visitors.
How many people visit the USS Arizona Memorial each year?
The USS Arizona Memorial is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hawaii, with over 1.5 million visitors per year. The memorial attracts visitors from all over the world, including military personnel, veterans, and families of the USS Arizona crew members. The memorial is open daily, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas, and it is free to visit, although there is a fee for parking and boat tours.
The large number of visitors to the memorial is a testament to its significance and importance as a historic landmark and a symbol of American history. The memorial’s staff and volunteers work hard to ensure that all visitors have a meaningful and respectful experience, and they offer a range of services and amenities, including guided tours, audio tours, and educational programs. The memorial also offers special events and ceremonies throughout the year, including a annual memorial ceremony on December 7, which commemorates the lives lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor.
Is the USS Arizona Memorial part of a larger historic site?
Yes, the USS Arizona Memorial is part of a larger historic site that includes several other attractions and exhibits related to the history of Pearl Harbor and World War II. The site includes the USS Missouri, which is docked nearby and offers guided tours, as well as the Pacific Aviation Museum, which features a collection of historic aircraft and exhibits on the history of aviation. The site also includes the USS Oklahoma Memorial, which honors the lives lost during the attack on the USS Oklahoma.
The USS Arizona Memorial is also part of the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, which is a national historic landmark that was established in 1980. The memorial includes several other historic sites and attractions, including the USS Utah Memorial, the USS Oklahoma Memorial, and the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is managed by the National Park Service, which provides a range of services and amenities for visitors, including guided tours, educational programs, and special events. The memorial is an important part of American history and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in World War II and the history of the Pacific.
Can visitors take a tour of the USS Arizona Memorial?
Yes, visitors can take a tour of the USS Arizona Memorial, which includes a boat ride to the memorial and a guided tour of the exhibits and displays. The tour is approximately 45 minutes long and includes a 15-minute boat ride to and from the memorial. The tour is led by a knowledgeable park ranger or volunteer who provides information about the history of the USS Arizona, the attack on Pearl Harbor, and the construction of the memorial.
The tour of the USS Arizona Memorial is a powerful and moving experience that provides a unique perspective on one of the most significant events in American history. The tour includes a visit to the memorial’s central plaza, where visitors can view the wall of names and the sunken hull of the USS Arizona. The tour also includes a visit to the USS Arizona’s bell, which is on display at the memorial, as well as a series of exhibits and displays that tell the story of the USS Arizona and its crew. Visitors can also take a self-guided tour of the memorial, which includes an audio tour that provides information about the history of the USS Arizona and the memorial.