USS Missouri History: Where World War II Ended
Discover the Mighty Mo’s service in three wars and her enduring legacy at Pearl Harbor.
On September 2, 1945, Japan formally surrendered aboard USS Missouri (BB-63) in Tokyo Bay, bringing World War II to an end. That moment secured the “Mighty Mo’s” place in world history.
Today, the Battleship Missouri Memorial preserves this historic ship on Ford Island at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Her decks and spaces connect visitors with the events that shaped her service and the generations of Sailors who called her home.
A Legacy of Service
Launched in 1944, USS Missouri served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Gulf War. Across these conflicts, the battleship adapted to changing naval technology and military missions, returning to active service after modernization in 1986.
Her final decommissioning in 1992 brought her naval career to a close, but a new role awaited: preserving the experiences of her crew and the history she helped shape.
A New Chapter at Pearl Harbor
On May 4, 1998, the U.S. Navy transferred ownership of Missouri to the USS Missouri Memorial Association. The ship arrived in Hawaii on June 21, 1998, beginning her transformation from a retired battleship into a public memorial.
Following repairs and restoration, the Battleship Missouri Memorial opened to visitors on January 29, 1999. Her home at Pearl Harbor established a place for remembrance, education, and reflection on the meaning of peace.
Preserving the Mighty Mo
Established in Hawaii in 1994, the USS Missouri Memorial Association, Inc., is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to preserving the battleship and sharing her story.
Through preservation, educational programs, and historical interpretation, we honor those who served aboard Missouri and help future generations understand her legacy of duty, sacrifice, and peace.
Connect with History in Person
Stand on the Surrender Deck and discover the people behind the ship’s history. Explore our Exhibits & Displays, view USS Missouri tours, and purchase Battleship Missouri Memorial tickets to plan your visit.
Explore USS Missouri’s History
