Honoring the 84th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor: A Week of Remembrance and Reflection

As the 84th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor approaches, Honolulu prepares to host a series of solemn events honoring the memory of those who perished on December 7, 1941.

 

Pacific Historic Parks has organized a week-long commemoration, inviting the public to participate in various ceremonies and activities.

 

On Friday, December 5, from 10:30 a.m. to noon, visitors can meet Rosie the Riveters at the Pacific Historic Parks' bookstore within the Pearl Harbor National Memorial.

 

These remarkable women, who played a crucial role on the home front during World War II, will be signing commemorative posters and sharing their stories.

 

The following day, Saturday, December 6, a sunset ceremony will be held at the USS Utah Memorial on Ford Island from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

 

This solemn tribute honors the 58 crew members lost aboard the USS Utah.

 

Access to Ford Island is restricted; however, limited bus transportation will be available for attendees.

 

On Sunday, December 7, the National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Commemoration Ceremony will take place at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial from 7:30 to 9:00 a.m.

 

The public is invited to join in honoring the more than 2,400 Americans who lost their lives during the attack.

 

Later that day, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m., the USS Oklahoma Ceremony will be held on Ford Island, remembering the 429 sailors and Marines who perished aboard the USS Oklahoma.

 

Access to this event is also limited, with bus transportation provided.

 

Concluding the week's events, the Blackened Canteen Ceremony will take place on Monday, December 8, from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. aboard the USS Arizona Memorial.

 

This annual reconciliation service honors all who died during World War II and features special guests, including canteen bearer Dr. Hiroya Sugano.

 

Attendance is by invitation only, but the public can view a live video feed along the shoreline at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial lawn.

 

In addition to these ceremonies, the Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade will take place on Sunday, December 7, with an opening ceremony at Fort DeRussy at 4:15 p.m., followed by the parade down Kalākaua Avenue at 6:00 p.m.

 

This annual event commemorates the anniversary of the attack and honors those whose service and sacrifice preserved freedom and liberty.

 

These events serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made and the resilience demonstrated during one of the most challenging times in American history.

 

They offer an opportunity for reflection, education, and a renewed commitment to peace.

 

For more information on these events and how to participate, please visit the official Pearl Harbor National Memorial website.