8 Historic Ships at Pearl Harbor You Need to Know
Historic Ships at Pearl Harbor: A Glimpse into the Past
Pearl Harbor, located in Hawaii, is a historic lagoon harbor that has played a significant role in the United States’ naval history. The harbor is home to several historic ships that have been preserved and now serve as museums, memorials, and even active naval vessels. In this article, we will explore eight historic ships at Pearl Harbor that you need to know.
1. USS Arizona Memorial (BB-39)
The USS Arizona Memorial is a must-visit attraction at Pearl Harbor. The memorial is built over the sunken battleship USS Arizona, which was attacked and sunk during the Japanese surprise attack on December 7, 1941. The memorial honors the 1,177 crew members who lost their lives during the attack. Visitors can take a boat tour to the memorial and pay their respects to the fallen heroes.
2. USS Missouri (BB-63)
The USS Missouri, also known as the “Mighty Mo,” is a battleship that served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Gulf War. The ship is best known for being the site of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender, which marked the end of World War II. Today, the USS Missouri is a museum ship and a popular tourist attraction at Pearl Harbor.
3. USS Oklahoma (BB-37)
The USS Oklahoma was a battleship that was sunk during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The ship was raised from the bottom of the harbor and eventually sold for scrap. However, the USS Oklahoma Memorial was built to honor the 415 crew members who lost their lives during the attack. The memorial features 415 white marble standards, each representing a crew member who died.
4. USS Utah (AG-16)
The USS Utah was a battleship that was converted into a target ship and eventually sunk during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The ship is still intact and serves as a memorial to the 58 crew members who lost their lives. The USS Utah Memorial is located on the northwest side of Ford Island.
5. USS Bowfin (SS-287)
The USS Bowfin is a submarine that served in World War II and is now a museum ship at Pearl Harbor. The submarine is also known as the “Pearl Harbor Avenger” and is credited with sinking 44 enemy ships during the war. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the submarine and learn about its history.
6. USS Cassin Young (DD-793)
The USS Cassin Young is a destroyer that served in World War II and the Korean War. The ship is now a museum ship at Pearl Harbor and is named after Commander Cassin Young, who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroism during the attack on Pearl Harbor.
7. USS Hoga (YT-146)
The USS Hoga is a tugboat that served during the attack on Pearl Harbor and is credited with helping to save the USS Nevada from sinking. The tugboat is now a museum ship at Pearl Harbor and is a great example of the bravery and heroism of the crew members who served on it.
8. USS Pennsylvanian (BB-38)
The USS Pennsylvanian was a battleship that served in World War II and was damaged during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The ship was eventually repaired and served for the remainder of the war. Although the ship is no longer at Pearl Harbor, it played an important role in the harbor’s history.
Visiting the Historic Ships at Pearl Harbor
Visitors to Pearl Harbor can take a self-guided tour of the historic ships, which includes the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Missouri, USS Bowfin, and USS Cassin Young. The USS Utah and USS Oklahoma Memorials are also accessible by car or on foot. The USS Hoga is currently being restored and is not open to the public.
🚨 Note: The USS Pennsylvanian is no longer at Pearl Harbor, but it played an important role in the harbor's history.
To make the most of your visit, consider purchasing a Pearl Harbor Historic Sites Tour, which includes admission to the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Missouri, USS Bowfin, and USS Cassin Young. Visitors can also explore the Pacific Aviation Museum, which is located on Ford Island.
Table of Historic Ships at Pearl Harbor
Ship Name | Ship Type | Year Built | Year Sunk (if applicable) |
---|---|---|---|
USS Arizona | Battleship | 1914 | 1941 |
USS Missouri | Battleship | 1944 | N/A |
USS Oklahoma | Battleship | 1914 | 1941 |
USS Utah | Battleship | 1909 | 1941 |
USS Bowfin | Submarine | 1942 | N/A |
USS Cassin Young | Destroyer | 1943 | N/A |
USS Hoga | Tugboat | 1942 | N/A |
USS Pennsylvanian | Battleship | 1915 | N/A |
In conclusion, the historic ships at Pearl Harbor are a must-see for anyone interested in naval history. From the USS Arizona Memorial to the USS Missouri, each ship has a unique story to tell and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the crew members who served on them.
What is the most popular attraction at Pearl Harbor?
+The USS Arizona Memorial is the most popular attraction at Pearl Harbor, with over 1 million visitors per year.
Can I take a tour of the historic ships at Pearl Harbor?
+Yes, visitors can take a self-guided tour of the historic ships, which includes the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Missouri, USS Bowfin, and USS Cassin Young.
What is the best way to get to Pearl Harbor?
+The best way to get to Pearl Harbor is by car or shuttle. Visitors can also take a taxi or ride-sharing service.