World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument

The World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument is located across three states in the United States: Hawaii, Alaska, and California. The Hawaii portion is situated at Pearl Harbor in Oahu, while the Alaska portion includes sites on Attu Island and Kiska Island in the Aleutian Islands. The California portion is located at Tule Lake in Modoc County.

Establishment

The monument was established on December 5, 2008, by a proclamation issued by President George W. Bush under the authority of the Antiquities Act of 1906. The date was chosen to coincide with the 67th anniversary of the Attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 2008.

Protection Reasons

The World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument was created to honor and preserve the events, people, and sites of the Pacific Theater engagement of the United States during World War II. It commemorates significant battles, such as the Attack on Pearl Harbor, the Battle of Attu, and the Japanese occupation of Kiska Island. The monument also includes the Tule Lake National Monument, which preserves the history of Japanese American internment during the war. The protection of these sites ensures that future generations can learn about and reflect on the sacrifices and events that shaped the course of history.

Things to Do When Visiting

Visitors to the World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument can engage in a variety of activities:

USS Arizona Memorial: Take a boat ride to the memorial, which honors the lives lost on the USS Arizona during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The visitor center offers exhibits and a documentary about the attack.
USS Utah Memorial: Visit the memorial dedicated to the USS Utah, another battleship lost during the attack.
USS Oklahoma Memorial: Pay tribute to the crew members of the USS Oklahoma who perished during the attack.
Ford Island: Explore the historic sites on Ford Island, including the Six Chief Petty Officer Bungalows and the Mooring Quays.
Tule Lake Unit: Learn about the history of Japanese American internment at the Tule Lake National Monument.
Aleutian Islands Sites: Visit the remnants of the Battle of Attu and the Japanese occupation of Kiska Island in Alaska.
Atka B-24D Liberator Crash Site: Explore the crash site of a B-24D Liberator on Atka Island.

Visiting the World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the history and significance of World War II in the Pacific Theater. Whether you’re interested in history, military heritage, or simply want to pay your respects, this national monument provides a meaningful and educational experience.