Battleship Missouri Memorial Honors the 80th Anniversary of the Normandy Landings to Commemorate End of World War II

Special Ceremony in Pearl Harbor Marks the 79th Anniversary of the War’s End on the Decks of the USS Missouri on September 2, 1945

Pearl Harbor, HI – (September 2, 2024) – Today, the Battleship Missouri Memorial celebrated the 79th anniversary of the end of World War II with a commemoration ceremony aboard the Mighty Mo. This historic ship holds significant importance as it was where the war officially came to an end, and the Instrument of Surrender was signed by Imperial Japan in Tokyo Bay on September 2, 1945.

The ceremony featured joint service U.S. Pacific Command color guard, musical performances by the U.S. Pacific Fleet Band, a rifle salute, the strains of Taps, and a moving rendition of Amazing Grace by the Celtic Pipes and Drums of Hawai‘i honoring all service members who paid the ultimate sacrifice in defense of America’s freedoms.

"We remember the soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines who sacrificed everything for a better world," said Michael Carr, President and Chief Executive Officer of the USS Missouri Memorial Association. "Their legacy is etched in our history and honored by each of us who are privileged to live in the freedom they secured."

This momentous occasion holds dual significance, marking both the 79th anniversary of World War II's end and the 80th anniversary of the Normandy Landings. Amidst the tumult of World War II, a defining moment of bravery and sacrifice unfolded on the shores of Normandy. The Normandy Landings, immortalized as D-Day, stand as a testament to the unwavering resolve of Allied forces in the face of tyranny and oppression. From the soldiers storming the beaches under a hail of enemy fire to the paratroopers descending into the darkness behind enemy lines, each displayed unparalleled valor and determination.

The keynote address was provided by featured Rear Admiral Erik Eslich, Director of Maritime Operations for the U.S. Pacific Fleet. Eslich noted, "We can never forget the sacrifices of so many who were committed to the success of the Normandy invasion 80 years ago, as well as the actions that culminated 79 years ago aboard this magnificent warship, ending the war in the Pacific." He went on to highlight, "As clearly demonstrated in WWII, especially in Normandy, I believe our history is filled with examples of everyday people who, faced with extraordinary circumstances and committed to something bigger than themselves, accomplished things deemed impossible."

Retired U.S. Army Major Michael J. Englund and Mr. John Figuerres, Deputy Director for Operations at the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, served as distinguished guest speakers. They shared words of gratitude for the Mighty Mo and praised the extraordinary courage and sacrifice involved in the historic D-Day invasion.

"Let us actively engage with our youth and help them apply the lessons learned from our past, lessons that can be applied to our lives today and will help shape the decisions and actions of tomorrow," said Retired U.S. Army Major Michael J. Englund. Echoing this sentiment, Mr. John Figuerres added, "The legacy, courage, and sacrifice stemming from this momentous feat reverberates through history and can still be felt today, especially by the families of those who never made it home."

The celebration paid tribute to the brave souls who fought on the beaches of Normandy and aboard vessels like the Battleship Missouri, forever altering the course of history and inspiring future generations of soldiers. As the Battleship Missouri Memorial extends its gratitude to all who attended, it remains committed to preserving the legacy of those who served and sacrificed during World War II, ensuring their stories and contributions are cherished and shared with future generations.

Link to Download Press Release: https://shorturl.at/DwAqeLink to Livestream Video: https://shorturl.at/TG1FtLink to Photos: https://shorturl.at/r03oE Please credit to the Battleship Missouri Memorial.

Caption: Attendees at the 79th Anniversary of the End of World War II honoring the 80th Anniversary of the Normandy Landings.

Caption: Rifle Salute by the Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Marine Corps Base Hawai‘i.

Caption: Parade of Colors by the Joint Service Color Guard, U.S. Pacific Command

Caption: Amazing Grace performed by bagpiper Rick Jackson from the Celtic Pipes and Drums of Hawai’i

Caption: Waipahu High School’s Junior RTOC Marauder Battalion attended today’s 79th Anniversary of the End of World War II Commemoration Ceremony. Battleship Missouri MemorialSince 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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