HAWAII'S MILITARY PAST BEYOND PEARL HARBOR

Hawaii’s position in the center of the Pacific has made it a vital military command center long before the Pearl Harbor attack. Today, you can still walk in the footsteps of Hawaii’s rich military past at locations throughout Oahu.

U.S. Army Museum of Hawaii, Oahu

Located in Battery Randolph, a former military battery built on the shores of Waikiki in 1911, the U.S. Army Museum chronicles the history of warfare in Hawaii from King Kamehameha to today.

Exhibits highlight the attack on Pearl Harbor, modern wars, and the role of Hawaii’s soldiers during the war. Learn about the 100th Infantry Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team comprised of Japanese Americans, many from Hawaii. This is a must visit for anyone interested in America’s military history.
> Learn more about the U.S. Army Museum

Leahi (Diamond Head), Oahu

Bordering Waikiki is world-famous Leahi, better known as Diamond Head. Blessed with panoramic views perfect for the coastal defense of Oahu, a total of five military batteries were built atop Diamond Head between 1910 and 1943. You can hike atop Diamond Head today and still see the remains of these bunkers. In fact, you can discover abandoned bunkers and batteries on hikes throughout Oahu.
> Learn more about Leahi (Diamond Head)

Aloha Tower, Oahu

Completed in 1926, the Aloha Tower in Honolulu Harbor was famous for welcoming visitors during “Boat Days,” festive celebrations that greeted passenger ships arriving in Oahu. The tallest building in Hawaii in the 40’s, Aloha Tower was actually painted with camouflage during World War II.

The Aloha Tower still welcomes cruise ships to this day. Visit the Aloha Tower Marketplace where you can shop and dine at its unique restaurants, boutiques, and shops. Don’t forget to take the elevator to the top of Aloha Tower to enjoy beautiful views of downtown Honolulu and the waterfront.
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Hawaii Theatre, Oahu

Located in downtown Oahu on the cusp of Chinatown, the Hawaii Theatre was opened in 1922 and was known as the “Pride of the Pacific.” During the war, this theatre and neighboring Chinatown were places where sailors and soldiers came for some well-deserved R&R.Today, the Hawaii Theatre has been meticulously restored. The League of Historic American Theatres named it “Outstanding Historic Theatre in America” in 2005. Visit the Hawaii Theatre to see nationally and locally acclaimed musicians, plays, and performances.
> Learn more about Hawaii Theatre

Iolani Palace, Oahu

This National Historic Landmark is a place of incredible significance for the Hawaiian people. This was the home of King Kalakaua, the “Merrie Monarch,” and his successor, Queen Liliuokalani, who was imprisoned here after the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy. During WWII this was the temporary headquarters of the military governor during martial law.Today, Iolani Palace has been completely restored to its past grandeur. Take a guided tour and transport yourself to the life of Hawaiian royalty in the late 1800’s. View the lovely furniture, artifacts, and portraits in the Palace interior as you learn about the intriguing events that took place here that changed the course of Hawaiian history.
> Learn more about Iolani Palace

Moana Surfrider & Royal Hawaiian Hotel

Two of Waikiki’s most historic hotels, the Moana Surfrider and the Royal Hawaiian Hotel, were popular rest and recreation stops for soldiers during WWII, a time when barbed wire was actually stringed along Waikiki Beach.Now known as the Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort, the “First Lady of Waikiki,” was the first resort built in Waikiki in 1901. Today you can visit the Moana and experience a classic style and elegance that echoes back to the iconic Waikiki of the 20’s, 30’s, and 40’s.The Royal Hawaiian Hotel, known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific” for its distinctive color, opened in 1927. In 1942, the hotel was actually leased by the Navy as a rest and recreation center. This magnificent resort made quite an impression on these sailors as many returned to Hawaii, staying at the Royal time and time again.
> Learn more about the Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort
> Learn more about the Royal Hawaiian Hotel

> Learn more about Pearl Harbor
> Learn more about places to experience Hawaii’s history