Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Honolulu (must see)

The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is dedicated to the lives lost during the Attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. This national park site consists of 21.3 acres. Included on the site are the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Utah Memorial, the USS Oklahoma Memorial, bungalows, mooring quays and a visitor center.

It is not only service members who are honors at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. Some civilians lost their lives on that fateful day as well. Among those civilians who were wounded and killed were one who worked at an accidentally targeted sugar mill, civilians who worked in the shipyards and a family whose house was struck. Out of the 2,390 people killed at Pearl Harbor, 49 were civilians.

Visitors to Pearl Harbor generally start their tour with an orientation at the Aloha Court. From there, they can decide how to spend their time. Though some tourists will view the monument over the course of a few hours, others should plan a full day to truly appreciate the memorial and the other nearby historic sites.

One of the features at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial is an exhibit gallery that shows photographs and memorabilia from both before and after the attack. Recorded memories from survivor are offered in the kiosks at the exhibit hall.

The USS Arizona Memorial program is 75 minutes, including a 23-minute film and a ferry to and from the USS Arizona Memorial.

Other historic sites that are near the Pearl Harbor National Memorial are the USS Missouri Battleship, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.

Why You Should Visit:
- To honor the legacy of those who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor
- To learn about the history of the U.S. involvement during World War II

Tips:
The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is open daily from 7 AM through 5 PM. Cost to visit the memorial is free, though those who book in advance may need to pay a $1 booking fee.