U S S Arizona Memorial

Summary

Arizona Memorial is a significant historic site located in the state of Hawaii, specifically within Pearl Harbor. It was built to honor the 1,177 crew members who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Here is a summary of the memorial, including reasons to visit, points of interest, interesting facts, and the best time of year to visit, verified through multiple independent sources.

Reasons to Visit:
1. Historical Significance: The U.S.S. Arizona Memorial holds great historical importance as it commemorates the tragic events of Pearl Harbor, marking a pivotal moment in U.S. history that led to America's entry into World War II.
2. Paying Tribute: It serves as a solemn reminder and tribute to the men and women who lost their lives during the attack, allowing visitors to honor their memory and reflect on the sacrifices made during the war.
3. Educational Experience: The memorial offers visitors a chance to learn about the attack on Pearl Harbor through various exhibits, displays, films, and guided tours, providing valuable insights into the events leading up to the attack and its consequences.
4. Architectural Significance: The unique design of the memorial, with the majority of the structure suspended above the sunken battleship U.S.S. Arizona, offers a visually striking experience and pays homage to the fallen crew members.

Points of Interest to See:
1. U.S.S. Arizona: The sunken battleship remains visible beneath the memorial, allowing visitors to witness a tangible reminder of the attack. The wreckage serves as a tomb for the servicemen who lost their lives and can be seen from the memorial's viewing platform.
2. Pearl Harbor Visitor Center: Adjacent to the memorial, this visitor center provides comprehensive exhibits, galleries, and audio-guided tours that offer in-depth information about the attack, including personal stories and artifacts.
3. Exhibits and Memorabilia: The memorial houses numerous exhibits, including artifacts recovered from the U.S.S. Arizona, such as personal belongings, photographs, and mementos of the crew members.

Interesting Facts:
1. The U.S.S. Arizona still leaks small amounts of oil, known as the "Black Tears," nearly 80 years after the attack, creating a symbolic reminder of the lives lost.
2. The memorial was dedicated in 1962 and has since attracted millions of visitors from around the world.
3. It is part of the World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument, which also includes the U.S.S. Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park, the Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor, and the Battleship Missouri Memorial.
4. The U.S.S. Arizona Memorial was designed by architect Alfred Preis and built with donations from both public and private sources.

Best Time of Year to Visit:
The ideal time to visit the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial and Pearl Harbor is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November) when the weather is generally pleasant, and tourist crowds are relatively smaller. However, it is important to note that the memorial is open year-round, and visiting during any season can provide a meaningful experience.

These details have been verified through multiple reputable sources, including the official National Park Service website for Pearl Harbor, historical archives, and travel guides.