The US Navy Pearl Harbor Shuttle Boats

Standing on the shoreline at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, you’ll notice that a stretch of water separates you from the iconic USS Arizona Memorial. As part of your Pearl Harbor tour, you’ll visit this solemn site, and you might wonder how you’ll get there. Then, you’ll spot the white Pearl Harbor shuttle boats, carrying passengers from just outside the Pearl Harbor Memorial Theater to the stark white structure anchored in the middle of the harbor.
At first glance, these boats may seem like ordinary vessels with no historical significance. However, that’s not the case. While the boats themselves weren’t part of the events of December 7, 1941, the names they bear honor heroes of the Pearl Harbor attack.

Though the Pearl Harbor National Memorial is managed by the National Park Service, the operation of the shuttle boats to the USS Arizona Memorial is the responsibility of the US Navy. These boats, owned and maintained by the Navy, are crucial for transporting visitors to and from the memorial and Battleship Row.
The shuttle boats are piloted by US Navy sailors who have received specialized training to share valuable insights about the USS Arizona and the memorial’s significance. Additionally, these sailors are entrusted with ensuring the safety of all passengers. The Navy is the authority to make decisions regarding the suspension of boat operations during inclement weather. High winds are the most frequent reason for canceling shuttle boat trips, though such instances are relatively rare.
In a bid to reduce their environmental impact, the Pearl Harbor shuttle boats are powered by biodiesel fuel produced locally by Pacific Biodiesel. This choice aligns with ongoing efforts to promote sustainable practices while maintaining the shuttle boats’ continuous operations throughout the day.
While the boats and their operators play an essential role in the USS Arizona Memorial experience, the names adorning the boats add an additional layer of historical significance. Each shuttle boat is designated as TB 39-n, mirroring the hull designation of the USS Arizona (BB-39). These boats carry the names of six heroes who performed courageous acts during the Pearl Harbor attack.

The first shuttle boat is named after Chief Aviation Ordnanceman John Finn. During the Japanese assault on US military installations on Oahu, Finn took up arms at Naval Air Station Kaneohe Bay. Despite being in an exposed position and suffering injuries, he continued to fire at the attacking planes. His bravery earned him the Medal of Honor and cemented his place as a Pearl Harbor hero.

Rear Admiral Samuel G. Fuqua was aboard the USS Arizona when the Japanese launched their attack. As the ship’s damage control officer, Fuqua was knocked unconscious by a bomb blast. Upon regaining consciousness, he immediately set to work, directing fire-fighting and rescue efforts, saving many lives. His heroic actions during the attack earned him the Medal of Honor.

Lieutenant Commander Jackson Pharris, stationed on the USS California (BB-44), is another Pearl Harbor hero honored with a shuttle boat bearing his name. Though the USS California suffered heavy damage, Pharris, despite being wounded, played a crucial role in helping repel the attack. He organized a hand-to-hand ammunition supply chain to keep the ship’s anti-aircraft guns firing, earning him the Navy Cross, which was later upgraded to the Medal of Honor.

Captain Donald Ross was serving aboard the USS Nevada (BB-36) during the attack. His actions in the forward dynamo room, where he stayed despite dangerous conditions, helped keep the ship’s systems operational. Ross passed out multiple times due to the heat but always regained consciousness and returned to his post. He was eventually ordered to abandon the room but not before he ensured the ship’s survival. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary bravery.

Chief Watertender Peter Tomich was aboard the USS Utah (BB-31/AG-16), a target ship, during the attack. Despite its non-combatant role, the ship was hit by Japanese bombs and began to capsize. Tomich remained at his post in the engine room, ensuring that his fellow sailors had a chance to escape, sacrificing his own life in the process.

Commander Cassin Young, the commanding officer of the USS Vestal (AR-4), found himself in the midst of the Pearl Harbor attack while his ship was moored next to the USS Arizona. After the Arizona’s magazine exploded, Young was thrown into the water but managed to swim back to his ship. He calmly directed efforts to save the Vestal, ultimately moving it away from the burning Arizona and beaching it to prevent further damage. Young was awarded the Medal of Honor for his leadership under fire.

The Pearl Harbor shuttle boats may appear to be simple vessels, but they carry with them the legacy of the men who acted heroically during one of the darkest moments in American history. Each trip aboard these boats serves as a reminder of the courage and sacrifice of the men whose names they bear, adding a layer of reverence to the journey across the waters of Pearl Harbor.