Pearl Harbor

9/11. In honor of this day of remembering, remembering all those who have either died fighting for our freedoms, or those innocent Americans who were killed in the terrorist attacks this day so many years ago. I wish that we all can take a moment to remember. Remember what these people died for. Remember them.

The national monument, actually called "World War II Valor in the Pacific," but commonly known as Pearl Harbor, is a solemnly beautiful area. Included in the small entrance fee (if purchased online - free if in person) are a few free walk-through museums in addition to its anchor attractions. Though we only made a reservation for a visit to the USS Arizona Memorial, the Battleship Missouri Memorial, USS Bowfin Submarine Memorial and Park, and Pacific Aviation Museum were also available and would have been very interesting to tour.

Our tour, however, began in a movie theater with a background video of the attack on Pearl Harbor from the view of both the Japanese and American sides. This informative moment led me to recall  lessons I had learned in history back in high school, along with a new perspective. As my great-grandfather was in the US Navy around this time, this film had a stronger connection for me than it would have prior to reading some of his letters.

Following this film, a sudden change from darkness to bright light ensued as we boarded a ferry to the ocean-bound remains of the USS Arizona. McKay enjoyed playing near the helm as the captain gracefully steered the boat across the loch to the location of the USS Arizona at the time of the air raid on Pearl Harbor.

Just off the shore of Ford Island, this solemn memorial has a permanent home residing directly above the sunken remains of the bombed USS Arizona. Reading the names of all those who perished while serving on this ship was quite melancholy. We are truly grateful for all those who gave, do now give, or who will yet give their lives (whether they live or die in the end) to fight for our country; that is the cost of freedom.

 

 

Munchkin's favorite part was pigeon chasing in the rafters on the mainland. He would catch site of those ever-present birds, and kick and kick until dad would lift him "high to the sky" to try and catch the birds. Sometimes he got quite close, actually - probably because his handsome daddy is so tall. :)

 

What a lovely day for remembering in Honolulu. We are so grateful for those who have served and who are currently serving our country, preserving those freedoms many of us feel so "entitled" to enjoy. Thank you.