Press Kit

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  Press Releases

  The latest and archived press releases from and about the park.

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  Management Contacts

  Access management and specialist contacts from the park.

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  Frequently Asked Questions

  Trip Planning Frequently Asked Questions

  Get the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and visiting the USS Arizona Memorial.

 

 

Brief Overview of Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Pearl Harbor National Memorial, located on Oahu, Hawaii, commemorates the December 7, 1941, Japanese attack that propelled the United States into World War II. The memorial serves as a place of reflection, honoring the 2,300 military and civilian lives lost during the attack and preserving the history of the Pacific War. Managed by the National Park Service, it includes the USS Arizona, USS Utah, and USS Oklahoma Memorials, which honor those who perished aboard these vessels. Visitors can explore the newly renovated Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, which offers extensive exhibits about the Pacific War, and take guided boat tours to the USS Arizona Memorial. The memorial also works in partnership with other nearby historic sites, such as the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum, the Battleship Missouri Memorial, and the Pacific Aviation Museum. Pearl Harbor remains a powerful symbol of sacrifice, resilience, and the enduring pursuit of peace.

Public Affairs Office Information

Our Public Affairs Office is open weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time, excluding federal holidays.

For media inquiries, as well as questions related to social media or the website, please contact the Public Information Officer at [e-mail].

 

Mission Statement

World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument, Pearl Harbor and its partners preserve, interpret, and commemorate the history of World War II in the Pacific from the events leading to the December 7, 1941, attack on Oahu, to peace and reconciliation.

 

Tom Leather, Superintendent of Pearl Harbor National Memorial.

NPS photo.

Tom Leatherman: Superintendent of Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Tom Leatherman now serves as the superintendent of Pearl Harbor National Memorial, bringing more than 30 years of experience with the National Park Service (NPS). Prior to his current role, Leatherman was the superintendent of four NPS sites in the Oakland area: Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site, John Muir National Historic Site, Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial, and Rosie the Riveter/World War II Home Front National Historical Park.

Leatherman’s NPS career began in 1989 as an intern at Pinnacles National Park. In 2005, he took on his first permanent superintendent role at Manzanar National Historic Site, where he developed strong relationships with the Japanese American community and continued as the regional representative for the NPS’ Japanese American Confinement Sites grant program. In his current role, Leatherman works closely with the Army and Navy, providing access to the Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial on an active military base.

“Tom is a seasoned and experienced leader,” said Acting NPS Regional Director Cindy Orlando. “He is perfect for this position because he has a proven track record of cultivating and fostering successful relationships with partners, including the military and diverse communities. Tom cares about the people he works with and the public he serves.”

Leatherman expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead at Pearl Harbor National Memorial. “I am humbled to serve as the superintendent at Pearl Harbor National Memorial,” Leatherman said. “I look forward to working with the staff, and the park’s partners to honor those whose lives were lost and to keep the site relevant for future generations in the years to come.”

Throughout his extensive career, Leatherman has held leadership roles at several national parks, including Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Joshua Tree National Park, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, and Great Basin National Park. He has also served in regional leadership positions, including as acting deputy regional director and team lead for the regional Serious Accident Investigation Team, and most recently as acting superintendent at Mount Rainier National Park.

Leatherman, his wife Jeanie, who is an elementary school teacher, and their cat Leo, have relocated to Oahu. Their two children remain on the mainland to attend college. When not working, Tom enjoys cooking gourmet meals, hiking, gardening, and relaxing with friends on the lanai.

Pearl Harbor National Memorial and its partners preserve, interpret, and commemorate the history of World War II in the Pacific, from the events leading to the December 7, 1941 attack on O‘ahu to peace and reconciliation. The NPS works closely with the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park, the Battleship Missouri Memorial, the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, and the US Navy to conserve historic resources and serve the public. Learn more at www.nps.gov/perl/.

 

Pearl Harbor National Memorial Fact Sheet

Location:
Oahu, Hawai‘i, within Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam

Historical Significance:
Site of the December 7, 1941, attack that led to the United States' entry into World War II
Number of fatalities: Over 2,300 military personnel and civilians
The attack marked the greatest loss of life in a single event in U.S. naval history, with over 1,177 crew members perishing aboard the USS Arizona alone

Key Facts:

• The USS Arizona Memorial serves as the final resting place for more than 900 crew members
• Pearl Harbor is the most visited destination in Oahu, attracting millions of visitors annually
• The site commemorates the sacrifices of both military and civilian personnel during the Pacific War
• Pearl Harbor is home to several memorials, including those dedicated to the USS Arizona, USS Utah, and USS Oklahoma

Memorial Features:

• USS Arizona Memorial: Located above the sunken battleship, serving as both a memorial and a tomb for those who lost their lives
• USS Utah Memorial: Honors the 58 crew members who died when the ship was torpedoed and capsized
• USS Oklahoma Memorial: Commemorates the 429 sailors and Marines who died when the battleship capsized after multiple torpedo hits
• Pearl Harbor Visitor Center: Offers exhibits detailing the events of December 7, 1941, and broader aspects of the Pacific War

Mission Statement:
Pearl Harbor National Memorial preserves, interprets, and commemorates the history of World War II in the Pacific, with a focus on the events leading up to the December 7, 1941, attack on O‘ahu and promoting peace and reconciliation.

Educational and Interpretive Programs:

• Guided tours of the USS Arizona Memorial, offering insight into the events of the attack
• Exhibits featuring historical artifacts, photographs, and first-hand accounts from survivors and veterans
• Educational programs that explore the long-lasting impacts of World War II in the Pacific
• Annual commemoration ceremonies, including the December 7th Remembrance Day

Notable Achievements:

• Designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1964
• The USS Arizona Memorial was authorized in 1958 and opened to the public in 1962
• Expanded into the World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument in 2008
• Became Pearl Harbor National Memorial in 2019

Visiting Information:

• Open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with free access to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center
• Tickets for the USS Arizona Memorial program are available on a first-come, first-served basis or by reservation
• Additional tours and access to other sites, such as the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum, Battleship Missouri Memorial, and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, are available for a fee
• Parking is free, and the visitor center is wheelchair accessible

Public Information Officer Contact
Email: [e-mail]
Phone: [phone]
Mailing Address: Public Information Officer, Pearl Harbor National Memorial, 1 Arizona Memorial Place, Honolulu, HI 96818

Website:
www.nps.gov/perl

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the Pearl Harbor National Memorial?

Pearl Harbor National Memorial is a site dedicated to preserving, interpreting, and commemorating the events of December 7, 1941, when Japan attacked the United States, prompting its entry into World War II. The memorial honors the 2,300 lives lost during the attack, including those aboard the USS Arizona, and serves as a place of remembrance and education about World War II in the Pacific.

2. What are the key memorial sites within Pearl Harbor National Memorial?

The key sites include:

• USS Arizona Memorial: Honors the 1,177 crew members who lost their lives during the attack.
• USS Utah Memorial: Commemorates the 58 crew members who died.
• USS Oklahoma Memorial: Dedicated to the 429 sailors and Marines who perished.
• Pearl Harbor Visitor Center: Provides exhibits, artifacts, and historical context related to the attack and World War II.

3. How can the media obtain press materials such as images or footage?

Members of the press can access high-resolution images, general B-roll footage, and other essential materials by contacting the Public Information Officer at [e-mail] or by calling 808-422-3399.

4. What are the operating hours of the Pearl Harbor National Memorial?

The memorial is open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. However, certain memorial sites, such as the USS Arizona Memorial, may require timed reservations for tours. Please visit the official website for up-to-date visitor information.

5. Is there an admission fee to visit the memorial?

Entrance to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center is free, but reservations for the USS Arizona Memorial program may have a nominal fee depending on availability and booking method.

6. How can we schedule interviews or media visits to the site?

Media personnel should reach out to the Public Information Officer via email at [e-mail] or by phone at 808-422-3399 to coordinate interviews, media visits, or special access requests.

7. What annual events take place at Pearl Harbor National Memorial?

Pearl Harbor hosts several key annual events, including:

• December 7th Remembrance Day: A solemn ceremony commemorating the anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor.
• Commemorative events for veterans and military personnel related to World War II. The memorial frequently holds smaller events focused on education and honoring those who served during the war.

8. Can the media film at the memorial?

Yes, filming and photography are allowed, but special permits may be required, especially for commercial use or media coverage involving extensive equipment. For permits, contact the Special Use Permits office at [e-mail] or 808-725-6150.

9. What partnerships does Pearl Harbor National Memorial have with other organizations?

The memorial works closely with the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum, Battleship Missouri Memorial, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, and the US Navy to preserve and interpret the history of World War II in the Pacific.

10. How does Pearl Harbor National Memorial engage in educational programs?

The memorial offers a variety of educational programs, including ranger-led tours, exhibits, and classroom resources. These programs aim to educate visitors about the significance of World War II, the attack on Pearl Harbor, and its lasting impact on world history.

11. How can I make reservations for a visit to the USS Arizona Memorial?

Reservations for the USS Arizona Memorial can be made through the Recreation.gov website, or in person on a first-come, first-served basis. It is recommended to book ahead due to high demand.

12. Who should I contact for special event requests or VIP visits?

For special event coordination or VIP visits, reach out to the Public Information Officer at [e-mail] or 808-422-3399 to discuss specific needs.

 

Partners of Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Pearl Harbor National Memorial collaborates with several key partners to preserve and interpret the history of World War II in the Pacific, with a special focus on the events surrounding the December 7, 1941, attack on O‘ahu. These partnerships enhance the visitor experience, provide additional educational resources, and ensure the ongoing stewardship of this historic site.

1. USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park

• Mission: The USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park preserves and shares the history of the USS Bowfin, a World War II-era submarine, and educates visitors about the silent service of submariners during the war.
• Exhibits and Tours: Visitors can tour the USS Bowfin, explore interactive exhibits, and learn about the role submarines played in the Pacific Theater.
• Website: USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park

2. Battleship Missouri Memorial

• Mission: The Battleship Missouri Memorial commemorates the USS Missouri (BB-63), the site where Japan officially surrendered, ending World War II. The memorial highlights the ship’s role in the war and subsequent conflicts, offering a powerful connection to the history of peace and reconciliation.
• Exhibits and Tours: Visitors can explore the “Mighty Mo” and gain a deeper understanding of her contributions during and after the war.
• Website: Battleship Missouri Memorial

3. Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum

• Mission: Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum educates visitors on the critical role of aviation in World War II and beyond, through the preservation of historic aircraft and the stories of the brave men and women who flew them.
• Exhibits and Tours: The museum houses a wide collection of World War II aircraft, and interactive exhibits focus on the impact of the war on aviation and Hawaii.
• Website: Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum

4. Pacific Historic Parks (Bookstore Partner)

• Mission: Pacific Historic Parks supports the educational and interpretive efforts at Pearl Harbor National Memorial by operating the official bookstore and providing proceeds that benefit the park. They offer a wide range of educational materials, books, and memorabilia that enhance the visitor experience.
• Role: The bookstore helps visitors deepen their understanding of World War II history through curated literature, educational resources, and memorabilia related to the attack on Pearl Harbor and the broader Pacific War.
• Website: Pacific Historic Parks

5. U.S. Navy

• Mission: The U.S. Navy plays a crucial role in the operations and preservation of Pearl Harbor National Memorial. The Navy provides access to key sites and works alongside the National Park Service to honor the memory of those who served and died during the attack on Pearl Harbor.
• Partnership Role: The Navy helps maintain the USS Arizona Memorial, coordinates special events, and supports historical research initiatives.

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Collaborative Efforts:

These partnerships enable Pearl Harbor National Memorial to offer a comprehensive, multi-faceted exploration of World War II history. From the submarine service to the role of battleships, aviation, and educational resources, each partner provides unique perspectives and learning opportunities. Together, they help tell the broader story of the Pacific War and honor the sacrifices made in the name of freedom.

For more information on the memorial’s partners and their work, please visit their respective websites or contact the Public Information Officer at [e-mail].

 

Foundation Document

Download the Foundation Document
Pearl Harbor National Memorial is dedicated to preserving, interpreting, and commemorating the history of World War II in the Pacific, from the events leading up to the December 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor to the broader Pacific War and post-war reconciliation. The National Park Service works with partners to ensure that the memorial honors those who lost their lives and fosters public understanding of the Pacific War.

Significance Statements

These statements emphasize why Pearl Harbor is a site of national and global importance:

• Attack on Pearl Harbor: Pearl Harbor preserves sites and artifacts related to the December 7, 1941, Japanese military attack on Oahu, which led to the U.S. entering World War II.
• Historic Pacific War Settings: The park collaborates with other agencies to preserve strategic locations significant to the Pacific War effort.
• Commemoration and Sacrifice: The memorial serves as a place of reflection, honoring the lives lost during the war, particularly those who perished during the attack.
• Final Resting Place: Pearl Harbor is the final resting place for hundreds of USS Arizona and USS Utah crew members.
• Portal to the Pacific War Story: The memorial serves as an entry point for visitors to learn about the broader Pacific War, including battles, human rights violations, and the long-lasting impacts of the war.
• Enduring Peace: The memorial offers opportunities for reconciliation between former combatants and serves as a symbol of peace and healing.

Fundamental Resources and Values

These include the USS Arizona, USS Utah, and USS Oklahoma Memorials, historic structures of Battleship Row, submerged archaeological resources, and physical artifacts like oral histories and military records. These elements are central to the park’s mission and must be preserved to maintain the site's significance.

Interpretive Themes

The key interpretive themes aim to educate visitors about:

• The broader impacts of World War II on the Pacific region.
• The nature of war, including personal sacrifices.
• The unexpected nature of the attack and how it thrust the United States into a global conflict.
• How the war challenged societies, governments, and military personnel alike, shaping the modern world.
• The ongoing struggle for peace and reconciliation in the post-war era.

Management Strategies

The document outlines strategies to address visitor access, resource protection, and collaborative efforts with the U.S. Navy and other partners. Special focus is given to maintaining the memorial’s historical integrity, addressing security concerns, and planning for future challenges like climate change and sea-level rise.

High-Priority Planning Needs

High-priority planning needs include:

• A comprehensive management plan for Ford Island and its memorials.
• A visitor experience plan to ensure a meaningful connection with the memorial’s themes.
• Enhanced collections management, especially for oral histories from World War II survivors.

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The Foundation Document is essential for guiding how the National Park Service and its partners manage and interpret Pearl Harbor National Memorial. It ensures that the historical significance of Pearl Harbor, as the site of one of the most pivotal moments in World War II, is preserved for future generations .