About this Unit
U.S. Naval Station, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, was officially established as a U.S. naval base in 1908, following the signing of a treaty with the Kingdom of Hawaii in the late 19th century. Its strategic location in the Pacific made it a critical hub for American naval operations, particularly during World War II. On December 7, 1941, Pearl Harbor was the site of a surprise attack by Japanese forces, which led to the United States’ entry into the war. Since then, the station has remained a central component of U.S. Pacific defense, supporting naval operations, logistics, and joint military activities in the Indo-Pacific region.
Historical Facts
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Establishment: U.S. Naval Station, Pearl Harbor was officially established as a U.S. naval base in 1908, following the signing of a treaty with the Kingdom of Hawaii in 1887 that allowed the U.S. to use the harbor as a coaling and repair station.
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Strategic Location: Pearl Harbor's central location in the Pacific Ocean made it a key strategic outpost for U.S. military operations, both before and during World War II.
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December 7, 1941 Attack: The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, led to the United States' entry into World War II. The surprise assault killed over 2,400 Americans and damaged or destroyed numerous ships and aircraft.
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USS Arizona Memorial: The sunken battleship USS Arizona remains in Pearl Harbor and serves as a memorial to the sailors and Marines who lost their lives during the attack. Oil still leaks from the ship, often called “the tears of the Arizona.”
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Base Expansion: After World War II, Pearl Harbor was significantly expanded and modernized, becoming one of the largest naval bases in the world, supporting both the U.S. Pacific Fleet and allied navies.
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Submarine Base: Pearl Harbor is home to a major U.S. submarine base, and was the departure point for many submarine patrols that played a crucial role in the Pacific theater during WWII.
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National Historic Landmark: Pearl Harbor was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1964, recognizing its significance in American history and military heritage.
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Home to the USS Missouri: The battleship USS Missouri (BB-63), aboard which the Japanese Instrument of Surrender was signed in 1945, is now permanently berthed at Pearl Harbor as a museum ship.
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Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam: In 2010, the Naval Station merged with Hickam Air Force Base to form Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, enhancing cooperation between the U.S. Navy and Air Force in the Pacific region.
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Continued Operational Importance: Today, Pearl Harbor remains the headquarters of the U.S. Pacific Fleet and plays a vital role in maintaining U.S. military presence and readiness in the Indo-Pacific region.
