Terminal Island: A Lost Tale of World War II tells the story of a community profoundly altered by the events following the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. While the tragedy of 2,403 American servicemen who died that day is a central focus of history, the narrative often overlooks the displacement and incarceration of over 100,000 Japanese and Japanese-American citizens. Among these stories of loss is the little-known history of Terminal Island, a vibrant community between San Pedro and Long Beach, California, erased during one of America’s darkest chapters.

Terminal Island was once a thriving community. Originally named Isla Raza de Buena Gente and later Rattlesnake Island, it evolved significantly in the early 20th century. It housed a steam station operated by the Southern California Edison Company and a temporary Ford Motor Company factory. In 1927, the U.S. Naval Reserve established an aviation training center at Allen Field, further solidifying the island’s strategic importance.

This close-knit community developed its own unique culture and dialect, shaped by years of relative isolation. The residents, many of whom were fishermen and laborers, thrived in their self-sufficient enclave. However, the bombing of Pearl Harbor shattered this stability, marking the beginning of a grim chapter for these families.

The Japanese planes, marked with their unmistakable red insignias, left no doubt about the origin of the attack. In the ensuing weeks, suspicion and fear gripped the nation, particularly toward individuals of Japanese descent.

For the residents of Terminal Island, this fear turned into immediate discrimination. Although they were American citizens, their ancestry became a mark of mistrust. The government deemed them a threat, disregarding their loyalty and contributions to the country.

On February 19, 1942, just two months after Pearl Harbor, Executive Order 9066 was signed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The residents of Terminal Island were given a mere 48 hours to pack their belongings and leave their homes.

Families scrambled to salvage what little they could, abandoning homes and businesses they had built over decades. The emotional toll was devastating, as they left behind not only their possessions but also the tight-knit community that had defined their lives.

The once-thriving neighborhoods of East San Pedro were subsequently razed, erasing the physical legacy of the Japanese-American presence on Terminal Island. The residents were sent to internment camps scattered across the West Coast, where they endured harsh living conditions, loss of freedom, and the stigma of being labeled as enemies.

The internment lasted until 1945, with the release of many detainees beginning in January of that year. For the residents of Terminal Island, the return to freedom was bittersweet. Their homes were gone, their community destroyed, and the island they had once called home was no longer accessible to them.

Most former residents were forced to start anew, relocating to unfamiliar cities and towns. The vibrant culture they had cultivated on Terminal Island became a memory, a relic of a time before war and prejudice uprooted their lives.

Today, Terminal Island’s history remains largely overlooked. The Los Angeles Board of Harbor Commissioners has implemented a preservation plan to protect the island, yet the stories of its Japanese-American residents are not widely remembered. The wartime injustices they endured are a sobering reminder of how fear and prejudice can devastate innocent lives.

Terminal Island stands as a symbol of resilience and loss, its story serving as a crucial chapter in the broader narrative of World War II. By revisiting and sharing this forgotten history, we honor the sacrifices and contributions of those who lived through one of America’s darkest moments.

The WWII Submarine Fleet played a pivotal role in the Allied victory during World War II, particularly in the vast and unforgiving Pacific theater. At a time when naval warfare stretched from the icy Russian tundra to the sun-drenched waters of the Pacific, submarines emerged as silent predators, effectively crippling the Japanese war machine. Despite making up less than two percent of the US Navy, these underwater warriors proved to be a game-changer, delivering devastating blows to enemy forces and supply lines.

In 1941, submarine technology was primitive compared to the nuclear-powered vessels of today. The submarines of World War II spent 90% of their time on the ocean’s surface, relying on combined diesel and battery-powered engines. Their General Motors diesel engines enabled them to travel at a respectable 20 knots on the surface, but once submerged, their speed dropped dramatically to just 2 knots as they ran on twin 126-cell batteries.

The limitations didn’t end there. Diesel engines required oxygen to function, forcing submarines to resurface frequently to recharge their batteries. This operational constraint made stealthy maneuvers more challenging, yet these submarines still managed to execute daring missions that turned the tide of the war.

At the heart of the US submarine effort was the USS Gato, the first of its class to take on the Japanese fleet. Measuring 311 feet and displacing over 1,500 tons on the surface (and nearly 2,500 tons submerged), the Gato-class submarines were a formidable force. They marked the beginning of the United States’ aggressive submarine campaign in the Pacific.

Two years later, the Balao-class submarines joined the fray. These were nearly identical to the Gato-class but featured a reinforced hull, allowing for deeper dives and enhanced operational capabilities. Together, these submarines spearheaded the Allied effort to dominate the Pacific theater.

Though they accounted for less than two percent of the US Navy, the WWII submarine fleet delivered outsized results. Submarines were responsible for sinking 30% of the Japanese Navy, including eight aircraft carriers. Even more impressive was their impact on Japan’s economy, as they destroyed nearly 5 million tons of critical resources, severely hampering the Japanese war effort.

This relentless assault on enemy supply lines and naval vessels played a significant role in weakening Japan’s ability to sustain its military operations. The submarines may not have received the lion’s share of glory, but their contribution was undeniable, often described as “punching above their weight class.”

Victory in war always comes at a cost, and the submarine fleet was no exception. During World War II, 52 submarines were lost, taking 3,506 brave sailors with them. For those aboard a downed submarine, the chances of survival were slim, as escape mechanisms were rudimentary at best. These sacrifices highlight the incredible bravery and dedication of the men and women who served aboard these vessels.

Their efforts not only helped secure freedom during one of history’s darkest periods but also left a legacy of heroism that continues to inspire.

The WWII submarine fleet demonstrated the power of innovation, resilience, and strategy in warfare. These vessels, though technologically limited by today’s standards, reshaped naval warfare with their ability to strike deep into enemy territory. Their actions significantly contributed to the fall of Japan and the eventual Allied victory in the Pacific.

The story of these submarines is a testament to the courage and determination of the crews who manned them. While their contribution often remains in the shadow of larger naval engagements, the impact of the WWII submarine fleet is etched into the annals of history as one of the most effective forces in the Allied arsenal.

The Calm Before the Storm

Robert Boulton, a survivor of the USS California during the Pearl Harbor attack, offers a unique perspective of that fateful day. His story begins like any other Saturday evening in Hawaii, far from the devastation that was about to unfold.

It was the evening of December 6, 1941, when Boulton, then a young sailor aboard the USS California, finished his evening duties and enjoyed a movie. The day had been quiet, and the crew was unaware of the impending danger. After the movie, Boulton and his fellow sailors went to bed, expecting another routine day ahead. Little did they know, their lives—and the course of history—were about to change.

At midnight, Boulton was called to his signal watch. It was a familiar routine, but something felt different that morning. He made his way to the signal station, overlooking the harbor, with a view of the peaceful waters of Pearl Harbor. The calm of the early morning was typical of the island’s tranquil atmosphere, but the sailors remained alert, having been trained for signal drills that were often conducted at night. What they didn’t realize was that those signal drills would soon be a mere backdrop to the most significant event in American history.

The USS California, like many other ships in the harbor, was in a state of preparedness due to tensions in the Pacific. Boulton and his fellow sailors did their best to stay focused on their duties, unaware of the danger looming overhead. The calm was shattered when the general alarm sounded. At first, the crew thought it was just another drill. As Boulton later recalled, “We’d been through drills before, but this one was different.”

The sound of the alarm grew louder as the realization set in: this was not a drill. Boulton and his comrades rushed to their stations, and the atmosphere shifted from routine to chaos. As the first bombs hit the harbor, panic began to spread across the fleet. The USS California was in the thick of it, sitting in the heart of the attack zone. Boulton, who was still in his underwear, rushed to get dressed and help his fellow sailors. He could hear the sirens wailing, the sounds of planes overhead, and the horrific noise of bombs dropping around him.

As the attack progressed, the situation on board the USS California grew worse. The ship was hit hard, and Boulton witnessed the destruction firsthand. The once-pristine battleship was now a symbol of the attack’s devastation. Boulton’s recollection of the moment paints a vivid picture of the overwhelming chaos as smoke filled the air and explosions rocked the ship. It wasn’t just the ship that was under attack—Boulton and his fellow sailors found themselves fighting for their lives. He and other crew members scrambled to assist with damage control and protect their vessel from further destruction. Many men were lost during the attack, with Boulton later learning that some of his close friends and shipmates never made it out of the chaos.

The USS California, despite suffering heavy damage, did not sink entirely, a testament to the bravery and resilience of the crew. However, the damage was so severe that the ship would remain out of commission for several months, requiring extensive repairs. For Boulton and the others who survived, the morning of December 7, 1941, marked a turning point. Their lives, as well as the course of history, had been irrevocably changed.

Boulton’s reflections on that day are both heart-wrenching and inspiring. He recalls the loss of so many men who gave their lives in defense of their country, as well as the courage of those who fought to keep their ship afloat. His story is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made on December 7, 1941, and of the resilience that continues to shape the legacy of the USS California and its crew.

Operation Barney: Revenge for a Lost Submarine recounts one of the most daring missions of World War II, involving the USS Bowfin and eight other submarines. This high-stakes operation not only honored the memory of the USS Wahoo but also showcased the resilience and ingenuity of the U.S. Navy.

Launched exactly one year after the attack on Pearl Harbor, the USS Bowfin, nicknamed the “Pearl Harbor Avenger,” embarked on her ninth and final war patrol as part of Operation Barney. The mission’s objective was clear but perilous: infiltrate the Sea of Japan, disrupt Japanese shipping, and avenge the loss of the USS Wahoo.

Vice Admiral Charles A. Lockwood, commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet’s Submarine Force, conceptualized Operation Barney after the tragic sinking of the USS Wahoo in 1943. Lockwood’s determination to avenge this loss culminated in a meticulously planned mission. Central to its execution was FM sonar technology, a revolutionary system capable of detecting underwater mines. This innovation provided a glimmer of hope for navigating the treacherous Tsushima Strait, a mine-laden gateway to the Sea of Japan.

Commander William “Barney” Sieglaff was tasked with training the fleet and refining the strategy. Despite the risks, the mission moved forward, assembling nine submarines into three groups known collectively as Hydeman’s Hellcats.

On May 29, 1945, the USS Bowfin, part of the Bobcats group, and her sister submarines began their perilous journey. Passing through the Tsushima Strait, the fleet faced constant danger from mines. The FM sonar, though effective, emitted a haunting chime whenever mines were detected nearby. Dubbed “Hell’s Bells,” this sound was a relentless reminder of the imminent threats surrounding the submarines.

Adding to the tension, cables from mines occasionally scraped against the hulls, creating nerve-wracking moments. Yet, the Bowfin successfully navigated the strait, emerging into the Sea of Japan unscathed and ready to carry out her mission.

Once in the Sea of Japan, the USS Bowfin focused on disrupting Japanese shipping. On June 11, she spotted and sank the Shinyo Maru, a solo cargo ship vital to Japan’s supply lines. Two days later, she struck again, destroying the Akiura Maru freighter. These victories highlighted the effectiveness of Operation Barney in weakening Japan’s war efforts.

The Bowfin’s actions during this patrol earned her a distinguished place in naval history, underscoring the bravery and precision of her crew.

Traveling at high speeds, they evaded Japanese defenses, marking the successful conclusion of the mission. Sadly, the USS Bonefish was lost during this phase, a sobering reminder of the operation’s dangers.

The USS Bowfin returned to Pearl Harbor on July 4, 1945, earning accolades for her pivotal role in Operation Barney. Credited with sinking 6,400 tons of enemy shipping, the Bowfin exemplified resilience and valor. Vice Admiral Lockwood himself honored the participating submarines, dubbing them the “Mighty Mine Dodgers.”

Today, the USS Bowfin serves as a museum and memorial at Pearl Harbor, preserving the legacy of the submarine force’s contributions during World War II. Operation Barney stands as a testament to the U.S. Navy’s innovation, determination, and courage in the face of overwhelming odds.

Visitors to the Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park can explore this historic vessel and learn about her extraordinary missions, including her role in Operation Barney—a mission that turned the tide of war and avenged the USS Wahoo’s tragic loss.

This daring operation continues to inspire, reminding us of the sacrifices made to secure victory and the indomitable spirit of the U.S. Navy.

The Mark 14 Torpedo: Problem Child of the US Navy, is one of the most fascinating yet challenging stories in naval history. This weapon, intended to be the backbone of the US submarine fleet during World War II, instead became a source of frustration and disappointment for American submariners. In the critical early months of the war, the Mark 14’s numerous design flaws nearly jeopardized the effectiveness of the US Navy’s submarine force against Japanese ships.

The Mark 14 was designed to outshine its predecessor, the Mark 10, but it quickly earned a reputation as a problem child. Lieutenant Commander Frederick B. Warder of the USS Seawolf (SS-197) was one of the first to document its failures. During six patrols, Warder noticed that the Mark 14 struggled to strike its targets.

One particularly frustrating incident occurred near Christmas Island. Warder launched a spread of torpedoes at the Japanese light cruiser Naka. While one torpedo hit its mark, the remaining failed to explode, allowing the cruiser to escape for repairs. On several occasions, the Seawolf crew heard explosions after firing, only to discover no damage had been inflicted on the enemy. A return to the older Mark 10 torpedoes dramatically increased the Seawolf’s success rate, raising serious questions about the reliability of the Mark 14.

To solve the mystery behind the Mark 14’s failures, the Navy conducted a series of tests. The first issue identified was the torpedo’s running depth. Designed to strike its target with precision, the Mark 14 was diving 10 feet deeper than intended, often passing harmlessly beneath enemy ships.

This was only the beginning. The magnetic detonator, which was supposed to trigger explosions near the target, often went off prematurely or failed entirely. Worse still, the contact detonators jammed on impact, rendering the torpedo ineffective even when it hit its target. These flaws made the Mark 14 a liability in critical engagements.

Fixing the Mark 14 was no small task. Adjusting the depth control valve resolved the depth issue, but the magnetic detonator proved too unreliable and was ultimately abandoned in favor of the contact mechanism. However, even the contact detonator posed problems.

During the Pearl Harbor attack, the US military recovered several downed Japanese aircraft. Engineers examining the planes discovered that their propeller blades were made of a lightweight metal. This material inspired the redesign of the Mark 14’s firing pin, solving the issue of it being too heavy to function correctly.

By the end of 1943, the revamped Mark 14 torpedo was battle-ready. The improvements quickly paid off; the USS Haddock (SS-231) demonstrated the torpedo’s newfound effectiveness by sinking two Japanese ships with four successful hits.

The upgraded Mark 14 torpedo went on to become a reliable weapon for the US Navy, remaining in service until 1980. Although its early flaws nearly undermined the submarine fleet’s efforts, the Mark 14’s eventual transformation into a highly effective torpedo stands as a testament to innovation and resilience during wartime.

The Mark 14 Torpedo’s story is not just about failure but also about overcoming adversity through ingenuity. From its troubled beginnings to its ultimate success, the Mark 14 played a vital role in the US Navy’s ability to dominate the seas during World War II.

Touring the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park offers an unforgettable glimpse into the storied history of submarine warfare and the bravery of those who served aboard these underwater vessels. Located next to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, this must-visit attraction features the legendary USS Bowfin (SS-287), a waterfront memorial, and immersive exhibits that captivate history buffs and casual visitors alike.
Whether you’re fascinated by naval history or seeking a unique family outing, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park promises an engaging and educational experience.

Launched on December 7, 1942—exactly one year after the attack on Pearl Harbor—the USS Bowfin earned the moniker “Pearl Harbor Avenger.” This decorated submarine played a critical role in the Pacific Theater during World War II, sinking over a dozen enemy vessels.

After her decommissioning in 1971, the Bowfin avoided being scrapped and instead became a living testament to the resilience of the United States following the attack on Pearl Harbor. Today, she is the centerpiece of the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park, a site dedicated to preserving submarine history and honoring those who served.

The Waterfront Submarine Memorial pays homage to the 52 submarines and more than 3,500 submariners lost during World War II. This solemn yet inspiring site allows visitors to reflect on the sacrifices made by these brave men who served their country beneath the waves.

Other outdoor exhibits include displays of the Kaiten, a Japanese manned torpedo, and the Regulus, a Cold War-era nuclear-armed cruise missile. The open-air setting provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the legacy of submarine warfare.

The USS Bowfin Museum offers a comprehensive look into the history of submarines and the men who operated them. Both indoor and outdoor exhibits feature artifacts, including the Bowfin’s battle flag, her bell, and a Purple Heart awarded to her only wartime casualty, Reid Lee.

Visitors can marvel at a dissected Poseidon C-3 missile, which provides a fascinating glimpse into the advanced technology of submarine-launched weapons. These displays showcase the evolution of submarines, from their weaponry to their strategic importance.

Boarding the Bowfin itself is the highlight of the visit. Explore the cramped quarters where World War II submariners lived, worked, and fought. This firsthand experience offers a newfound respect for the courage and ingenuity of these sailors who spent months beneath the ocean’s surface.

Bag Policy

For security reasons, bags of any kind—including backpacks, purses, and diaper bags—are not allowed when touring the USS Bowfin or any part of Pearl Harbor. A convenient bag storage facility is available near the entrance for a flat fee. To save time, consider carrying only what you can fit in your pockets.

Food and Snacks

Touring Pearl Harbor can be a long and hungry experience, but there’s no need to worry. A snack bar near the Bowfin ensures you can refuel during your visit. While outside food and beverages aren’t allowed, the snack bar offers convenient options to keep you energized.

Admission and Audio Tours

Your admission ticket to the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park includes an engaging audio tour available in multiple languages. Kid-friendly versions are also available, making the experience enjoyable for visitors of all ages.

A visit to the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park isn’t just a journey into the past—it’s an opportunity to honor the bravery and sacrifice of submariners who played a crucial role in shaping history. From exploring the interior of the Bowfin to reflecting at the Waterfront Memorial, every moment spent at this incredible site is both educational and inspiring.

For those visiting Pearl Harbor, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park is an essential stop that combines history, innovation, and a deep respect for the men who served beneath the waves. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, this experience will leave a lasting impression.

The attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, remains a defining moment in global history. For many Japanese during the early 1940s, the strike was viewed as a necessary step to secure national sovereignty and resist foreign interference. It marked Japan’s formal entry into World War II, aiming to incapacitate the American Pacific Fleet and protect Japanese interests. But how does Japan view this event today, more than 80 years later?

During the early 20th century, Japan experienced significant tension with Western powers. The United States, in particular, imposed trade restrictions, including oil embargos, which deeply impacted Japan’s economy and military strategy. These actions, seen as foreign interference, fueled a nationalistic drive within Japan, culminating in the decision to strike Pearl Harbor.
At the time, many Japanese people supported the attack as a bold move to assert their nation’s independence and strength. It was perceived as a proactive effort to eliminate the looming American threat. The goal wasn’t merely to declare war but to send a clear message that Japan would not bow to external pressures.

Fast forward to today, and the perspectives have shifted significantly. Modern Japan, a nation built on peace and diplomacy since the end of World War II, generally views the attack on Pearl Harbor with a sense of regret rather than pride. Leaders like former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe have expressed sentiments emphasizing reconciliation and the need to move beyond the dark chapters of the past. Abe himself made a historic visit to Pearl Harbor in 2016, alongside U.S. President Barack Obama, where he offered condolences to the victims of the attack.
For many Japanese citizens, Pearl Harbor is a distant event that carries little relevance to their daily lives. While there is no widespread sense of shame, there is also no glorification of the attack. It is largely seen as a tragic episode in a war that brought immense suffering to both nations.

One of the most notable differences in how Japan and the United States approach Pearl Harbor lies in its representation in historical education. Japanese history textbooks often provide limited details about the attack, treating it as a minor episode in the broader context of World War II.
This contrasts sharply with American schools, where Pearl Harbor is a focal point in discussions about the war, remembered as a day of infamy that united the nation against a common enemy. In Japan, however, the attack is not framed as a turning point but rather as one among many wartime decisions.

For those looking to explore Japan’s wartime history, the Yasukuni Shrine in Tokyo might seem like an appropriate place. The shrine commemorates those who served the Empire of Japan, including soldiers from the Pearl Harbor attack. However, the narrative presented at Yasukuni is often controversial.
Within the shrine’s museum, the events leading to the attack are sometimes depicted from a perspective that challenges the mainstream global understanding. For instance, some displays suggest that the United States maneuvered Japan into initiating conflict, pointing to political strategies and sanctions imposed before the attack. This view, while not widely accepted, highlights the complexities of historical interpretation.

It is natural for historical events to be viewed differently depending on cultural and national contexts. For Americans, Pearl Harbor remains a somber reminder of the sacrifices made during World War II. For the Japanese, it is a moment from the past that they have largely moved beyond, focusing instead on maintaining strong diplomatic ties with former adversaries.
While there may never be complete agreement on the events of Pearl Harbor, what remains essential is the commitment to peace and understanding. By reflecting on history, both nations continue to honor the lives lost while working together to ensure such conflicts remain a part of the past.

The attack on Pearl Harbor serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of war. In Japan, it is a symbol of a time when the nation sought to assert itself on the global stage, only to face overwhelming losses. For Americans, it represents a rallying cry for unity and resilience.
As the years pass, the focus should remain on fostering mutual respect and learning from history. Pearl Harbor’s legacy lies not in glorifying the attack or harboring resentment but in understanding the complexities of the past and building a better future.

On December 7, 1941, as Japan launched a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, three notable U.S. Navy ships were absent: the USS Enterprise (CV-6), USS Lexington (CV-2), and USS Saratoga (CV-3). These aircraft carriers, powerful symbols of naval aviation, played a pivotal role in World War II. But what exactly are aircraft carriers, and how did their absence impact the events of that fateful day?

An aircraft carrier is a massive warship designed to serve as a floating airbase. Its flat, expansive deck allows planes to take off and land far from traditional airstrips, giving navies the ability to project air power across vast distances. During World War II, aircraft carriers became indispensable, revolutionizing naval warfare and shifting the focus from battleships to air superiority at sea.
The Imperial Japanese Navy’s successful attack on Pearl Harbor relied heavily on their carriers. Without them, Japan’s planes couldn’t have crossed the Pacific Ocean’s 4,000-mile expanse to reach Hawaii.

The history of aircraft carriers dates back to the early 20th century. Inspired by the Wright brothers’ first successful flight, naval engineers began exploring the concept of launching and landing planes on ships.
In 1910, Eugene Burton Ely became the first person to take off from a ship’s deck, flying from the USS Birmingham (CS-2). Just months later, he successfully landed on the USS Pennsylvania (ACR-4). These groundbreaking achievements paved the way for naval aviation.
By 1914, Japan’s Imperial Navy joined the innovation race, launching its first ship-based air raid. In 1918, the British Royal Navy introduced the HMS Argus, the first ship specifically designed for aircraft operations. Initially, aircraft carriers were often converted from other ship types, such as cruisers or battlecruisers, due to restrictions imposed by the 1922 Washington Naval Treaty.
For the U.S. Navy, the Lexington-class carriers marked an early milestone, while Japan developed carriers like the Akagi, which would later play a crucial role in the attack on Pearl Harbor.

During World War II, aircraft carriers emerged as game-changers in naval strategy. Their ability to launch airstrikes from the sea made them pivotal in battles across the Pacific theater.
One of the earliest demonstrations of carrier power came in 1940 when HMS Illustrious conducted a long-range strike against the Italian fleet. The United States showcased its carrier strength during the Doolittle Raid in 1942, launching bombers to strike Tokyo as retaliation for Pearl Harbor.
Despite their capabilities, aircraft carriers were vulnerable. Recognizing this, navies developed light carriers, which were smaller, quicker to build, and easier to deploy. For instance, the USS Independence (CVL-22) was converted from a cruiser hull to meet wartime needs.

The post-war era saw significant advancements in aircraft carriers. As aircraft became larger and more advanced, so did the carriers themselves. Modern carriers, like the Nimitz-class, boast displacements four times greater than early carriers like the USS Enterprise.
Today, carriers are considered the crown jewels of naval fleets. However, their high costs and vulnerability necessitate protective measures, such as carrier battle groups that include escort ships.
The United States operates the most aircraft carriers globally, including 11 nuclear-powered supercarriers. The latest innovation, the Gerald R. Ford-class, features automation, an Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System, and unmanned aerial vehicles. These cutting-edge carriers cost over $14.5 billion each and represent the pinnacle of naval engineering.

Had the USS Enterprise, Lexington, or Saratoga been in Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, the attack’s outcome might have been drastically different. Aircraft carriers were crucial to naval dominance, and their absence preserved them for future battles that shaped the war.
Aircraft carriers symbolize the evolution of naval power, transitioning from battleship supremacy to air superiority. From Pearl Harbor to the present, these floating airbases have left an indelible mark on military history, ensuring their place as essential assets in modern warfare.

When most people hear the name Pearl Harbor, they immediately think of the infamous Japanese attack on December 7, 1941, that propelled the United States into World War II. President Franklin D. Roosevelt immortalized the date as “a day which will live in infamy.” However, Pearl Harbor’s history extends far beyond that fateful event. Long before it became a significant U.S. naval base, the area was known to Native Hawaiians as Wai Momi, meaning “Pearl Waters.” Its story is one of natural beauty, cultural significance, and mythological lore that predates its association with modern warfare.

Hawaii, in 1941, was not yet a U.S. state but had been an American territory since the late 19th century. Before becoming a focal point for military and political interests, the islands were visited by European explorers, starting with Captain James Cook in the 1770s. For centuries before these encounters, however, Hawaii thrived as an isolated world of its own. Its people cultivated a rich culture deeply connected to the land and sea, including the waters of Wai Momi.
Pearl Harbor, when viewed from above, resembles a tree with its roots meeting Mamala Bay and its trunk branching into the West Loch, Middle Loch, and East Loch. This unique natural formation once boasted pristine waters brimming with oysters, which made the lagoon a source of wealth and beauty. Native Hawaiians aptly named it Wai Momi to honor the abundance of pearls found there. Another traditional name for the area, Puʻuloa or “Long Hill,” reflects the natural terrain.

The lagoon’s historical and cultural significance is intertwined with Hawaiian mythology. According to legend, Puʻuloa was the domain of Kaʻahupahau, the shark goddess. She, along with her brother Kahiʻuka, resided in underwater caves in the harbor—hers in the West Loch and his near Ford Island. Together, they protected the people of Oʻahu by warding off man-eating sharks. Islanders revered Kaʻahupahau as a benevolent guardian.
One variation of the story recounts how Kaʻahupahau left Wai Momi in the 19th century after human activity began to damage the environment. With her departure, the once-abundant oyster population dwindled, transforming the lagoon forever.
Another tale tells of Chief Keaunui of Ewa, who is credited with shaping the harbor. The chief is said to have widened and deepened the area, creating the lagoon that became known as Wai Momi. Such legends highlight the deep connection the Native Hawaiians had with their land and waters, seeing them as sacred spaces shaped by divine and human hands alike.

Ford Island, located in the center of Pearl Harbor, also holds cultural significance in Hawaiian history. Native Hawaiians used the island for fertility rituals known as the hōlua games. Chiefs would pair men and women to spend a ceremonial night together, symbolizing the renewal of life and prosperity. These rituals reflected the islanders’ spiritual beliefs and connection to nature. However, such practices faded in the early 19th century with the arrival of Christian missionaries who sought to impose their religious values on the islands.

Before European explorers and settlers arrived, Native Hawaiians lived harmoniously along the shores of Wai Momi. Canoeing through its calm waters, they fished, gathered oysters, and celebrated the lagoon’s natural bounty. The harbor played a vital role in their daily lives, providing sustenance and inspiring traditions and myths.
The arrival of foreign explorers brought profound changes. Westerners were drawn to the harbor’s strategic location and natural resources, setting the stage for transformations that would eventually turn Wai Momi into a military hub. These developments displaced traditional Hawaiian ways of life, replacing them with industries and infrastructure catering to external interests.

As Western and American influence grew, Wai Momi transitioned from a sacred lagoon to a pivotal location in U.S. military strategy. By the late 19th century, the harbor was being developed as a naval base, its natural beauty altered by modernization. The harbor’s significance reached its apex on December 7, 1941, but its earlier history as a place of Hawaiian legends and traditions remains a crucial part of its identity.

Understanding Wai Momi’s history is essential to appreciating its cultural depth. Beyond its role in modern history, the harbor is a testament to the rich heritage of Native Hawaiians. From the mythology of Kaʻahupahau to the fertility rituals on Ford Island, Wai Momi embodies the spirit of a people who lived in harmony with their environment.
As visitors and historians reflect on Pearl Harbor’s legacy, it’s vital to remember its roots in Hawaiian culture. The name Wai Momi, with its reference to the pearls that once sparkled in its waters, serves as a reminder of a time when the lagoon was a source of life, legends, and livelihood for the islanders. This duality of history—both ancient and modern—makes Pearl Harbor a truly unique and sacred place.

The Medal of Honor, the United States’ highest military distinction, is reserved for extraordinary acts of bravery and sacrifice. In 1942, John Finn, a Chief Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy, became the first serviceman awarded this honor during World War II. His actions on December 7, 1941, during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, showcased his unparalleled courage and dedication.

Born in July 1909, John Finn joined the U.S. Navy just shy of his 17th birthday in 1926. After completing training in San Diego, he began a career that would span three decades. Specializing as an aviation ordnanceman, Finn was responsible for maintaining and operating anti-aircraft weaponry. By late 1941, he was stationed at Naval Air Station Kaneohe Bay on Oahu’s eastern shore, overseeing a team responsible for the weaponry of a squadron of PBY Catalina flying boats.

On the fateful morning of December 7, 1941, Finn was at home when he was alerted to the Japanese attack. Without hesitation, he rushed to the station, witnessing enemy aircraft strafing the ground as he arrived. Despite the chaos, Finn’s focus remained on protecting his men and his station.
As the attack unfolded, Finn took a machine gun from one of his sailors, mounted it on a portable tripod, and positioned himself in an open area to fire at incoming Japanese planes. Fully exposed to enemy fire, he prioritized clear visibility over personal safety. For two relentless hours, Finn fired at the attackers, even as he sustained 21 injuries, including a gunshot wound to his foot and a severe shoulder injury.
After finally seeking medical attention, Finn returned to duty, assisting with the rearming of surviving aircraft. His actions that day not only inspired his men but also drew the attention of military leadership.

John Finn’s extraordinary bravery did not go unnoticed. In 1942, he was commissioned as a Limited Duty Officer, a position he held for five years. On September 14, 1942, aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CV-6), Admiral Chester Nimitz presented Finn with the Medal of Honor. This recognition made him the first recipient of the award during World War II.
Despite this prestigious honor, Finn continued to serve with humility and dedication. He remained in the Navy until his retirement in 1956, achieving the rank of lieutenant.

Even in retirement, John Finn remained an active figure within the World War II veteran and Medal of Honor communities. He attended numerous events, including a 2009 ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery with President Obama, despite his advanced age.
Finn’s contributions have been immortalized in various ways. A U.S. Navy shuttle boat, used to transport visitors to the USS Arizona Memorial, was named in his honor. Additionally, a stretch of U.S. Route 80 was designated the “John Finn Route,” and Marine Corps Base Hawaii Kaneohe also features tributes to his heroism.
The most prominent honor came in 2017, seven years after Finn’s passing on May 27, 2010. The U.S. Navy commissioned the USS John Finn (DDG-113), an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, into service. The ship stands as a living tribute to Finn’s bravery and commitment.

John Finn’s actions on December 7, 1941, exemplify the extraordinary courage required to confront overwhelming odds. His willingness to stand in the open, under relentless enemy fire, reflects his unwavering dedication to duty and country. His Medal of Honor is not just a testament to his heroism that day but a symbol of the countless sacrifices made during World War II.
As we honor heroes like John Finn, their stories continue to inspire future generations. Through landmarks, naval vessels, and roads bearing his name, Finn’s legacy lives on, ensuring his bravery is never forgotten.

John Finn’s heroism during the attack on Pearl Harbor solidifies his place as one of the great defenders of the harbor. From his courageous actions on that fateful day to his enduring legacy, Finn remains a symbol of valor and dedication. His story serves as a reminder of the extraordinary lengths individuals will go to protect their country and their comrades.