Hidden Pearl Harbor
Unseen Relics of the War
As you navigate through the Pearl Harbor memorials, immersing yourself in the wealth of history presented by various exhibits and museums, it’s essential to ponder how much of that history lies lost at the bottom of the harbor or has been swallowed by the depths of the Pacific Ocean. The attack on December 7, 1941, claimed numerous artifacts, but remnants of this significant event are scattered across Oahu, often hidden from public view.
These hidden sites may not be accessible, yet they represent critical elements of the Pearl Harbor narrative, deserving exploration through words and stories.
A Rare Look into the USS Arizona Battleship
The attack led to the sinking of three United States Navy ships, with the most famous being the USS Arizona. The ship remains submerged, serving as a solemn memorial to the lives lost during that fateful day. Above her, a stunning memorial has been erected, now part of the World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument, attracting countless visitors each year who pay their respects.
Another ship, the USS Oklahoma, was raised but ultimately deemed too damaged for repair and sold for scrap. The USS Utah, however, was left at the bottom of the harbor, a forgotten relic that only those venturing to the northwestern shoreline of Ford Island can glimpse. After sustaining torpedo damage, the Utah sank, taking with her the lives of 62 servicemen, including Chief Watertender Peter Tomich. While the USS Utah Memorial is currently not open for public viewing, efforts by the National Park Service are underway to allow visitors access in the future.
The Remnants of War
Even after more than 75 years, the scars of the Pearl Harbor attack remain visible across the landscape. Hickam Field, once bustling with activity, still bears the marks of that day. Bomb craters dot the ground, serving as stark reminders of the aerial assault, while small scars in the concrete tell stories of the machine-gun fire that filled the air during the chaos.
John Finn’s Personal Battle
Amid the chaos, Navy Chief Petty Officer John Finn was engaged in a different battle at Kaneohe Bay. While his fellow sailors fought aboard their vessels, Finn took it upon himself to defend the base after the Naval Air Station was attacked. Armed with a .30-caliber machine gun, he stood his ground against incoming fighters for two relentless hours, sustaining 20 wounds from shrapnel yet surviving the ordeal. Finn lived until 2010, and his bravery during the attack remains etched in history, with the impact craters and machine-gun markings at Kaneohe Bay standing as testimony to his courageous stand.
Conclusion
The hidden relics of Pearl Harbor tell a story of bravery, sacrifice, and resilience. Though many artifacts lie beneath the waves, the memories of those lost, and the courage displayed during those harrowing moments, continue to resonate. Visiting Pearl Harbor not only allows individuals to honor those who fought and died but also serves as a poignant reminder of the lessons learned from the past. As the National Park Service works to preserve these sites, the hope is that future generations will continue to remember and reflect on the significance of this pivotal moment in history.
Most Popular Oahu Tours
Best Pearl Harbor Tours – NOW ON SALE
The following tours are recognized as the most popular Pearl Harbor Tours on Oahu. While generally, our price is the lowest in the market now, for a limited time, they are on sale too. Please be advised that Pearl Harbor tickets and USS Arizona Memorial tickets are included in all of our Arizona Memorial Tours, Pearl Harbor small group tours, and private Pearl Harbor tours.