Facts About Punchbowl National Cemetery

There are several facts about the Punchbowl National Cemetery, officially known as the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, is a site of immense historical and cultural significance. Located in the Punchbowl Crater in Honolulu, Hawaii, it serves as the final resting place for over 53,000 U.S. military veterans and their families. The site, which was established in 1949, honors those who served in major conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. The cemetery is also home to over 70 memorials commemorating various American military actions.

Punchbowl Crater, or Puowaina, meaning “Hill of Sacrifice” in Hawaiian, has a somber history that dates back to ancient times when it was used for human sacrifices. The site gained its current function in the 20th century when the U.S. government recognized the need for a dedicated veterans’ cemetery. Following World War II, in 1948, Congress approved funding for the cemetery, and it was officially dedicated on September 2, 1949. The establishment of this cemetery was a crucial step in providing a dignified resting place for the fallen servicemen of the Pacific Theater.

The Punchbowl National Cemetery is the final resting place for several notable figures. Among them are Patsy Mink, who was the first woman of color elected to the U.S. Congress, and Stanley Armour Dunham, the grandfather of former President Barack Obama. The cemetery also honors war correspondent Ernie Pyle, who was killed during World War II, and U.S. Senators Daniel K. Inouye and Spark Matsunaga, both of whom served with distinction in the military before embarking on political careers.

The cemetery is adorned with more than 70 memorials, each commemorating different aspects of American military history. These monuments have been donated by various organizations over the years and serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served. Among the memorials, one can find dedications to the servicemen who perished in the Pearl Harbor attack, as well as those who fought in other significant battles and wars.

Today, Punchbowl National Cemetery continues to be a place of reflection and reverence. Visitors from around the world come to pay their respects, learn about the history of American military engagements, and honor the memories of those who sacrificed their lives. The cemetery’s serene environment, set against the backdrop of the lush Hawaiian landscape, offers a powerful contrast to the grim realities of war that it commemorates.
Punchbowl National Cemetery stands as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of America’s military personnel. Its rich history, notable interments, and numerous memorials make it not just a place of burial but also a site of historical education and reflection. For anyone visiting Hawaii, a trip to this hallowed ground is a meaningful way to honor those who have served and to gain a deeper understanding of the nation’s military history.