Ford Island, Honolulu

Ford Island is a significant United States Navy base situated at the heart of Pearl Harbor, and it's linked to the mainland by the Admiral Clarey Bridge. On this island, you'll find various military facilities, along with housing areas for military personnel and their families.

What sets Ford Island apart from some other military bases is that it's a natural island, not a man-made one. Initially called Moku 'ume'ume, meaning the isle of attraction, it later became known as Ford Island, named after Dr. Ford, a physician who worked at the U.S. Seamen's Hospital and the Hawaiian Insane Asylum in the mid-1800s. The U.S. military acquired the island during World War I and stationed personnel there in 1918.

Ford Island originally served as a naval air station and was strategically located at the center of the Pearl Harbor attack due to its proximity to battleship moorings. In 1962, it ceased to function as a separate command and was placed under the authority of the Pearl Harbor Naval Base. Furthermore, in 1964, the island received recognition as a National Historic Landmark and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.

Before 1998, access to the island was restricted to military personnel and their families. However, with the construction of the Admiral Clarey Bridge, civilians now have the opportunity to visit the island, explore the USS Missouri, and experience the Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor.