Battleship Missouri Memorial Commemorates 80th Anniversary of the End of World War II with Historic Ceremony, Veterans' Reunion, and Pathway to Peace Exhibit Opening

Eight Living USS Missouri World War II Crewmembers Return for Historic Ceremony in Pearl Harbor

 

Pearl Harbor, HI – (September 2, 2025) – Today, the Battleship Missouri Memorial hosted a historic ceremony aboard the Mighty Mo to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, where Imperial Japan formally surrendered on September 2, 1945.

 

“This year’s anniversary carries a unique and deeply personal significance,” said Michael Carr, President and CEO of the USS Missouri Memorial Association. “To welcome back eight of our own World War II crewmembers who were eyewitnesses to history is both humbling and inspiring. Their presence reminds us that the story of World War II is not distant—it lives on through those who sacrificed and those who continue to carry forward the lessons of peace.”

 

The solemn commemoration was highlighted by the presence of eight surviving USS Missouri crewmembers, who returned to the decks where they once stood as young Sailors during the Japanese surrender ceremony eight decades ago. These living legacies were honored for their courage and service in front of hundreds of attendees, including military leaders, dignitaries, veterans, students, and members of the public.

 

“Most of us were in our late teens and early 20’s at the time. We didn’t stop to think much about fear. We simply did what needed to be done for our country. I was fortunate to serve with a great bunch of guys,” said Edgar “Ed” Buffman, WWII veteran and USS Missouri crewmember. “It’s because of these men I served with and are still with us and many more have since passed away; that we are able to gather here today aboard this historic ship. So, let’s thank them.”

 

Mr. Buffman served aboard the USS Missouri from 1944 to 1946 as a Gunner’s Mate Second Class (GM2) in the 8th Division’s Gunnery Department and is recognized as a proud World War II plank owner. On April 11, 1945, he witnessed the kamikaze strike on the starboard side of the ship. Later that same year, he was aboard the decks of the Missouri during the historic surrender ceremony on September 2, 1945.

 

Admiral Samuel Paparo delivered the keynote address, reflecting on the enduring lessons of World War II and honoring the USS Missouri crewmembers for the pivotal roles they played in shaping history. As Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command, Admiral Paparo oversees more than 380,000 military and civilian personnel across the region. His decisive leadership and steadfast commitment to peace through strength embody the very principles upheld aboard this historic ship.

“Standing here today, we feel the greatest generation urging us to carry the torch higher and to prove ourselves worthy of the freedom and peace that you secured,” said Admiral Paparo.

The Bob & Dolores Hope Foundation, presenting sponsor of the 80th anniversary commemoration, was recognized for its steadfast commitment to honoring America’s service members and veterans.

 

The ceremony also featured a joint service U.S. Pacific Command color guard, musical performances by the U.S. Pacific Fleet Band and Sounds of Aloha, a rifle salute, the playing of Taps, Old Glory flag presentation, and a stirring rendition of Amazing Grace by the Celtic Pipes and Drums of Hawai‘i.

 

This year’s anniversary also coincided with the debut of the Battleship Missouri Memorial’s newest exhibition, Pathway to Peace: USS Missouri’s World War II Experience. The immersive exhibit highlights the Missouri’s pivotal role in the Pacific War, told through artifacts, archival film, and the voices of her Sailors—including those honored at today’s ceremony. The exhibit will be on display through February 2026.

 

Link to Livestream Video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFIospT-M8Y

Please credit images to the Battleship Missouri Memorial
Link: https://finnpartners.box.com/s/j3eaz0fgsaqf9c0glzb04381oahqz72m

Battleship Missouri Memorial

Since opening in January 1999, the Battleship Missouri Memorial has attracted more than 10-million visitors from around the world with a fascinating tour experience showcasing the USS Missouri’s unique place in history. Located a mere ship’s length from the USS Arizona Memorial, the Mighty Mo completes a historical visitor experience that begins with the “day of infamy” and sinking of the USS Arizona in Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 and ends with Japan’s formal surrender aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay on September 2, 1945.

The USS Missouri had an astounding career over five decades and three wars – World War II, the Korean War, and Desert Storm – after which it was decommissioned and donated to the USS Missouri Memorial Association, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. The Association operates the Battleship Missouri Memorial as a historic attraction and oversees her care and preservation with the support of visitors, memberships, grants, and donations.

 

Safety is our top priority. The Battleship Missouri Memorial is taking additional steps to assure guests will have a safe and healthy experience touring the Mighty Mo. We respectfully ask all visitors to abide by state of Hawaii safety guidelines while on site.
 
The Battleship Missouri Memorial is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Military, kama‘āina (local resident) and school group pricing is available. For information or reservations, call (808) 455-1600 or visit USSMissouri.org.

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Media Contacts:

Shere’e Quitevis                                                         Jaclyn Hawse            

(808) 741-1668                                                           (808) 455-1600 ext. 246
Sheree.Quitevis@FinnPartners.com                         JaclynH@ussmissouri.org