The USS Arizona Memorial is closed indefinitely

No one knows when the memorial site, built in 1962 to honor the 1,177 sailors and marines who died aboard the USS Arizona, will reopen.

The USS Arizona Memorial, built in 1962 to honor the 1,177 sailors and marines who died aboard the USS Arizona during the bombing of Pearl Harbor, closed indefinitely on May 27th, just one day before Memorial Day.

Concerns started earlier this month when a transportation operator reported cracks on the exterior of the memorial, near the dock and visitor loading ramp. After the National Park Service discussed what was originally supposed to be a relatively easy fix with a team of structural engineers, more extensive issues about the memorial’s foundation were found. According to a statement released by the National Park Service, “the amount of time needed to implement the repairs is unknown.” Although the cause of these damages has not yet been identified, it’s important to note that the USS Arizona Memorial was built in 1962 and sees 4,000 to 5,000 visitors daily.

Although the memorial is currently closed, the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center remains open for business. Guests can still watch the documentary film, then take a harbor tour of Battleship Row in close proximity to the USS Arizona Memorial. Bookstores, gift shops and the Pearl Harbor museums are also open, along with the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park and the Pacific Aviation Museum.

For more information, visit nps.gov/valr/ or facebook.com/valornps, (808) 422-3399.