Arizona Memorial in Oahu Hawaii

If you’ve ever been someplace on the earth where there is just a different ‘feeling’ about it you’ll know what I’m talking about in regards to the Arizona Memorial on Oahu in Hawaii.  From the moment you walk into the introduction theater you get a feeling that you are on hallowed ground.  It has a sense of reverence about it like if you were visiting a graveside or hallowed place.

You can almost sense the sacrifice that was made by so many and glimpse the pain and sorrow that so many felt that infamous day here in Pearl Harbor.  The visitors center is a fitting memorial to all those who suffered and loss that day.  A short boat ride out to the Arizona memorial where you get a front-row seat to the wreckage of the USS Arizona as it lays on the bottom of the harbor still leaking oil to this very day.

From the memorial you can see the other book-end of the USS Missouri.  The Arizona and the Missouri are called the book-ends of World War 2 as they mark the beginning and end of the war.  Just a solemn as the Arizona was I could feel a sense of joy and relief on the Missouri as I walked the desk.  While I’m sure there were many sorrows and pains felt aboard this ship, it marked the end of a war that encompassed the world.  There on the deck of the Missouri the cease fire was signed that officially ended the battles.  Any trip to Hawaii and Oahu necessitate a visit to these great monuments.  Only by coming here can you begin to get a real feeling for this part of our countries history.  It’s well worth the time and price of touring Pearl Harbor.