40th Anniversary of USS Missouri’s Recommissioning
Honoring the Recommissioning Crew | Battleship Missouri Memorial, Pearl Harbor
In 1986, the legendary USS Missouri returned to active service, marking a new chapter in the ship’s extraordinary history. Four decades later, the Battleship Missouri Memorial is proud to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the ship’s recommissioning and honor the sailors who brought the “Mighty Mo” back to life, the dedicated Mighty Mo Sailors known as the Recommissioning Crew.
Now permanently berthed in historic Pearl Harbor, the Battleship Missouri Memorial continues to serve as a powerful symbol of service, sacrifice, and the enduring legacy of the U.S. Navy. On May 9 & 10, 2026, we invite members of the Recommissioning Crew to return to the ship they helped restore to greatness for a special day of remembrance, camaraderie, and celebration.
Recommissioning Crew Steel Beach Picnic
Saturday, May 9, 2026 - 12:00 Noon
Crew-Only Event
On Saturday, May 9, Recommissioning Crew Members and a guest are invited to join us aboard the ship’s Fantail for a Steel Beach Picnic, recalling the traditions Sailors enjoyed while the ship was underway during her years of active service. This relaxed gathering offers an opportunity for shipmates to reconnect, share stories, and once again enjoy time together aboard the decks of the “Mighty Mo.”
Registration required.
RSVP Today: Click Here
40th Anniversary Recommissioning Ceremony
Sunday, May 10, 2026 - 1:00 PM
Open to the Public
On Sunday, May 10, the Battleship Missouri Memorial will host a 40th Anniversary Recommissioning Ceremony aboard the ship’s Fantail. This special program will recognize the historic moment when USS Missouri returned to service in 1986 and celebrate the Sailors who made it possible.
Visitors and guests are welcome to attend the ceremony and join us in honoring the Recommissioning Crew. Guests will also have the opportunity to meet and mingle with former crew members, hear their stories, and reflect on the ship’s remarkable legacy.
Immediately following the ceremony, guests are invited to remain aboard the ship for a traditional Hawaiian blessing and the unveiling of a brand-new exhibit honoring the Recommissioning Crew, located on the ship’s Second Deck. This special moment will mark the official dedication of the exhibit and offer attendees the opportunity to be among the first to view and experience this new addition to the Battleship Missouri Memorial.
All guests in attendance are warmly invited to participate in this meaningful unveiling and celebration of the Sailors who helped return the “Mighty Mo” to active service.
This ceremony is open to the public. Space may be limited and advance registration is recommended.
Reserve Your Spot Today: Click Here
Returning to the Mighty Mo
For many members of the Recommissioning Crew, this anniversary represents a chance to once again stand on the decks where they served and helped shape the ship’s modern history. Today, as a museum and memorial at Pearl Harbor, USS Missouri preserves that legacy for future generations while honoring the sailors who served aboard her in peace and war.
Crew Visit Day – Saturday, May 9, 2026
- Time: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. HST
- Admission: Free for Recommissioning Crew members and their families.
- What to Expect: Guests will have the opportunity to explore the ship with a staff member from the Battleship Missouri.
We are honored to welcome the Recommissioning Crew home and will be available throughout the day to assist with visits and ensure a meaningful experience aboard the Mighty Mo.
Questions or assistance with crew visit registration:
Frank Clay | frankc@ussmissouri.org