While moving during a global pandemic had its ups and downs, we have been able to take full advantage of exploring all of the tourist attractions on Oahu while tourism is still limited on the island.
Pearl Harbor was at the top of our list to visit, as we know how crowded the sites can get on a regular basis. We took advantage of their family passes, and visited the sites on several different occasions.
On our first visit, we were 1 of 4 families at the sites. We were able to take our time exploring all of the memorials and tours, while not feeling rushed.
We started our visit with an audio tour, walking through the exhibits and viewing the WWII Valor in the Pacific National Monument.
We then boarded the USS Bowfin Submarine, and walked through their living quarters, kitchen areas, and work spaces.
It was incredible to view the memorials and submarine, and think about all of the history that has taken place in that harbor. We ended our first visit after the submarine tour, and decided to view the USS Arizona Memorial on our next visit.
Second visit, the USS Arizona Memorial tour.
We made reservations for a Sunday morning tour, and the limited number of guests at the memorial, as well as increased time allotted, allowed for a very unique and memorable experience. It is an indescribable feeling viewing the remains of the USS Arizona Battleship, and reflecting on the history of what happened on December 7, 1941.
Fuel continues to leak from the battleship wreckage that can be viewed at the memorial. It is estimated that up to 9 quarts of oil spill into the harbor each day. According to online sources, it is believed between 14,000 and 64,000 gallons of oil have leaked from the USS Arizona since the attack, and it is estimated it could continue to leak for 500 years.
The base of the gun turret no. 3 and the memorial flagstaff attached to the mast leg are very prominent sites that can be viewed above the water.
Remnants of gun turret no.2 can be viewed above the water as well, and white buoys located on each side of the memorial indicate where the bow and stern of the ship rest. The shrine at the far end of the memorial is a marble wall that bears the names of all those killed on the USS Arizona. Additionally, two base pillars bear the names of survivors of the attack who have since passed away. These surviving crew members have had their ashes interred within the wreck by US Navy divers to be reunited with their brothers of war.
The sounds of the flag flying high above the quiet memorial is another reminder of the brave heroes who lost their lives that day.
Having the opportunity to view and experience the Pearl Harbor Memorial Sites is something that will never be forgotten. The loss of lives that took place on December 7, 1941, and the significance of the attack that led to the United States immediate involvement in WWII, is unfathomable.
These visits were truly indescribable, moving, and monumental.
For more information on visiting the Pearl Harbor Monuments click here.
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