Battleship Missouri Memorial Honors 250 Years of Military Service at Veterans Day Sunset Ceremony
Posted on 11/12/25.
Special ceremony in Pearl Harbor commemorates the enduring legacy of the U.S. Army, Navy,
and Marine Corps
Pearl Harbor, HI – (November 11, 2025) – Today, aboard the historic Mighty Mo, the Battleship Missouri Memorial hosted its annual Veterans Day Sunset Ceremony, commemorating 250 years of service by the United States Army, Navy, and Marine Corps. The event brought together veterans, active-duty service members, dignitaries, and the community for an evening of remembrance and gratitude—paying tribute to the courage, honor, and commitment that have defined America’s Armed Forces since their founding in 1775 and celebrating their enduring legacy against the iconic backdrop of Pearl Harbor.
“The Battleship Missouri Memorial stands as a powerful symbol of honor and unity,” said Michael Carr, President and CEO of the USS Missouri Memorial Association. “As we honor 250 years of military service, we are reminded of the countless men and women who have dedicated their lives to defending our nation’s freedoms. Today, and every day, we express our deepest gratitude to them.”
The ceremony opened with a cappella version of the National Anthem and Hawai‘i Pono‘ī by Sounds of Aloha, honoring all who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
This year, Admiral Steve “Web” Koehler, Commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, delivered the keynote address, reflecting on the timeless values and traditions that unite every member of the military and the enduring spirit that carries their service across generations.
“USS Missouri is a memorial today not just because it was a great battleship but because of the people on board who drove it to victory. And more than that, it is living proof of American tenacity across generations,” said Admiral Koehler. “Here this day is ending, but the sun will never set on our powerful, resolute and global joint force. It will never set on centuries of global service by American defenders or the light of their ideals. And it will never set on our mighty pacific fleet and our victorious veterans – past, present and future.”
Allen Hoe, a Vietnam War veteran and lifelong advocate for service members and their families, served as the distinguished guest speaker. He concluded his address with an oli (Hawaiian chant) dedicated to the veterans who came before us, offering a heartfelt tribute to their legacy.
“With the passing of time, it is not likely that we have in our presence veterans of World War I, thus, we would like to honor them with a brief moment of silence,” said Hoe. “I would like to recognize and honor all of the veterans here today and thank you for your service. To all those who served, those who continue to serve, and those who will serve for freedom in the future. Thank you.”
Additional remarks were shared by Captain Steven W. Colón (Ret.), representing the USS Missouri Memorial Association Board of Directors, who spoke on the continued mission of the Memorial to honor, educate, and inspire all who visit.
Among those in attendance was John Gleeson, a 102-year-old World War II veteran who enlisted in the U.S. Army the day after the attack on Pearl Harbor. After the war, he continued his service during the Korean War.
The ceremony closed with “God Bless America,” a moment of silence, Taps, Amazing Grace performed by the Celtic Pipes and Drums of Hawai‘i, and the Armed Forces Medley—a moving, timeless tribute to all who have served and continue to serve, as the sun set over Pearl Harbor.
In addition to the in-person attendees, the Battleship Missouri Memorial welcomed viewers worldwide to join the ceremony virtually via livestreams on its Facebook page and YouTube channel. This event was free and open to the public, allowing everyone to participate in this historic day of remembrance and gratitude.
Please credit to the Battleship Missouri Memorial.
Link to download images: https://finnpartners.box.com/s/llrg5kirtwpje4bk6nue6ng4225p2jgb
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.
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.
# # #
Media Contacts:
Jaclyn Hawse
(808) 455-1600 ext. 246
Shere'e Quitevis
(808) 741-1668
sheree.quitevis@finnpartners.com