On Friday, we got up bright and early to drive to Pearl Harbor. We wanted to be early so we could get tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial -- there's only a certain amount of tickets and they go quickly. We got lost a few times trying to find the right exits and turn offs, so it was rather stressful, but we arrived in time to get tickets - YAY! Since our tour wasn't until 11 a.m., we had plenty of time to look around. We took a self-guided tour of the USS Bowfin Submarine. The submarine was first launched one year (to the day) after the attack on Pearl Harbor. This sub sunk 44 ships and ran 9 patrols before being retired here. As we went through the engine area, a little asian museum volunteer grabbed my camera and started taking pictures for us! Unfortunately, most of them are blurry!
This is a look up into the periscope of the submarine. It was amazing to see how the sailors on this submarine lived in the tight, compact, and efficient quarters. I wish now I'd snapped a few pictures of the kitchen, showers, and bunks! Some sailors bunks were on top of or next to the missiles that were ready for launch!
On the top deck of the submarine and out in the "park" area there were several guns that were fun to explore. These are pictures of each of the boys trying them out.
This is just a view of the periscope from the outside top deck.
We also got to explore the USS Missouri Battleship. It is nicknamed the "Mighty Mo". It was the last battleship built and the last to be decommissioned. It served in numerous conflicts including WWII, Korea, and the Gulf War.
These 3 guns on the ship are ENORMOUS!
It was on the deck of this ship that WWII officially came to an end when the Japanese surrendered. This is a picture of the original document that each country signed to end the war. Look carefully and you'll see that Canada signed in the wrong place!
Looking out over the big guns and the main deck, the Mighty Mo stands guard over the USS Arizona Memorial.
Matthew in the captain's chair of the Mighty Mo!
Our first look at the USS Arizona Memorial. We boarded a ferry for the short ride over to the memorial.
On the far end of the memorial is this wall with all the names of those who served on the USS Arizona.
While visiting this memorial with so many people at the same time, it was interesting that there was very little noise. Everyone was speaking in quiet voices or being silent to show respect and reverence for all the service men who died here.
Parts of the Arizona are still visible just under the surface of the water.
This large section of the Arizona sits well above the water.
A quick picture of the boys & Mark.
A cute couple.
Looking up at the US Flag flying high in the sky above the Arizona was just inspiring to me.
Leaving the memorial and getting back on the ferry to return to shore. We loved being able to visit Pearl Harbor!
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