The Battleship Missouri Memorial, famously known as the “Mighty Mo”, is one of Pearl Harbor’s most powerful and moving historic sites. Located on Ford Island, this legendary battleship marks the place where World War II officially ended on September 2, 1945. Today, it serves as a museum and living memorial, offering visitors an unforgettable journey through U.S. naval history.
Historical Significance
Commissioned in 1944, the Missouri served in the Pacific during World War II, where it played a key role in several major operations. Its most defining moment came in Tokyo Bay when General Douglas MacArthur and representatives of the Allied and Japanese forces signed the official surrender documents on its deck. The ship later saw action in the Korean War and even during Operation Desert Storm before being decommissioned in 1992.
Visiting the Mighty Mo
The Battleship Missouri Memorial is part of the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites, located just a short shuttle ride across the Ford Island Bridge. Once aboard, visitors can stand on the exact spot where the surrender ceremony took place and explore the ship’s vast decks, crew quarters, and command centers. Exhibits explain the ship’s construction, service, and life at sea, while guided tours provide deeper insights into its history and legacy.
What to Expect of any visit, where the war’s final chapter was written.
- Crew Living Spaces: A glimpse into the daily lives of sailors who served on board.
- Gun Decks and Turrets: Massive 16-inch guns showcase the ship’s power.
- Interactive Tours: Options range from self-guided walks to in-depth docent-led experiences.
Practical Information
- Location: Ford Island, accessible only by shuttle from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center.
- Admission: Tickets are available online or on-site, with discounts for children, seniors, and military members. Combination tickets with other Pearl Harbor attractions can save time and money.
- Time Needed: Allow at least 2–3 hours to explore the ship fully.
- Accessibility: Most areas are accessible, though some sections require climbing steep ladders.
Why Visit?
The Battleship Missouri is more than a naval vessel—it is a bridge between past and present. It honors the sacrifices of those who served while symbolizing peace, as its bow faces directly toward the USS Arizona Memorial across the harbor. Together, they mark the beginning and end of U.S. involvement in World War II.