February 2012 Message

On December 7, under the direction of a Pearl Harbor survivor and featuring more than 650 musicians and performers, an awe inspiring mass band performance commemorating the 70th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor brought a fitting end to the year for the Missouri. As we closed another chapter in her career we look forward to a new year that looks to be just as exciting as the last.

Our staff wasted no time hitting their stride and on January 28 we celebrated the 68th anniversary of the Missouri’s launch from Brooklyn Navy Yard and our 13th year as a memorial.  The day was filled with festivities, including band performances, educational activities, Battleship game stations, and a free Battleship birthday party giveaway. That day we also recognized our volunteers who continue to play an invaluable role in the preservation and operation of the ship; without their hard work and dedication the Missouri would not be the icon she is today.

2012 brings with it tremendous opportunity. Along with the numerous events, educational programs, and preservation efforts, we will also see the premier of Universal Picture’s Battleship, in which our very own Battleship Missouri plays a prominent role. I’m looking forward to sharing this next year with all of you. Mahalo for your continued support.

Mahalo for your continued support!

– Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

 

December 2011 Message

As the end of the year approaches, we take a look back at the past year in this issue of Broadside. Most of it fills us with pride for what we have accomplished. Some brings sadness for those we have lost.

In the end, it is the support of those like you that allows our efforts to succeed. Likewise, knowing that you value our mission as much as we do, helps to carry us forward despite any challenge or loss of dear friends. Rather, we remain committed to the preservation and perpetuation of the Missouri’s legacy, so that future generations will not only remember, they will learn, understand and honor our veterans.

Mahalo for your part. Best wishes to you and yours this Holiday Season.

– Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

October 2011 Message

Our team at the Battleship Missouri Memorial has been hard at work throughout the summer, and we have a lot to show for it — as detailed in this issue of Broadside.

From our commemoration of the 66th anniversary of the end of World War II, to the opening of a new, onboard Research Center, to a whirlwind overnight encampment experience for a group of Big Island students … our last several weeks have been some of our most successful ever.

As we look ahead to next year, we are setting our sights higher for 2012 and preparing for exciting events and projects on the horizon, not the least of which is Universal Pictures’ premiere of “Battleship” in May 2012.

Read all about it below. Our success would not be possible without your help. Mahalo for your continued support!

– Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

August 2011 Message

Aloha from the Mighty Mo!

I am pleased to announce that the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has declared the Battleship Missouri Memorial an official Regional Site for the observance of Veterans Day 2011.

The annual Battleship Missouri Veterans Day Sunset Ceremony has traditionally been a favorite among our members, visitors, local residents and officials. As this year’s ceremony caps other similar events throughout our nation, it will be an added honor to represent our region, among the 56 other Regional Sites in the country. The letter notifying us of the honor states, “The Veterans Day National Committee is confident that your Veterans Day observance will serve as a fitting tribute to America’s Veterans.”  

We look forward to sharing the details of our sunset ceremony as they are finalized and announced. Please save the date: 11/11/11.   

In the meantime, read about other exciting news in this issue of Broadside.

Mahalo for your continued support!

– Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

June 2011 Message

Last month was an eventful month at the Battleship Missouri Memorial — even more than usual. It was Military Appreciation Month, of course, which meant that the Missouri was honored to host a greater amount of reenlistment and promotion ceremonies than is typical. Since opening in 1999, the memorial has hosted reenlistments, promotions, commissionings, retirements and changes of command ceremonies for sailors, soldiers, airmen and marines on nearly a daily basis.

Providing a venue for military reenlistments is a daily honor that we are happy to accept. These ceremonies are a special treat for our visitors. They tie this ship’s history to the events of today. The ceremonies bond those who served on the USS Missouri when she defended our nation in World War II, Korea and Desert Storm, with those who face today’s global challenges with the same outstanding professionalism and pride.

On May 10, we were also pleased to welcome back a special group of veterans who served aboard the USS Missouri in her final decade of service. Read more about ceremonies held to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Missouri’s 2nd commissioning — and more — in this issue of Broadside.

Mahalo for your continued support!

– Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

April 2011 Message

In this issue of Broadside, you’ll read about an upcoming visit by a WWII POW and American Olympian whose story has been made into a #1 New York Times Bestseller. It is an ongoing honor to welcome veterans from all eras on a daily basis.

Visits from our former, retired and active-duty military personnel make the Mighty Mo experience that much more meaningful for all our visitors, whether these veterans are participating in reenlistment and other military ceremonies that occur on nearly a daily basis, or they are visitors themselves. It is in the name of our veterans that we preserve the legacy of the Battleship Missouri, in the hope that the values of duty, honor, strength, resolve and sacrifice are passed on to new generations and made relevant to the events and issues of today.

Read on for the latest news and activities here at the Battleship Missouri Memorial in Pearl Harbor, where America’s last battleship is in good hands in Hawaii.

Mahalo for your continued support!

– Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

February 2011 Message

On Jan. 29, we happily issued an “all-aboard” to all military and local families to enjoy free tours of the Battleship Missouri Memorial. It was our way of saying thank you to these two important communities in celebration of the 67th anniversary of the Missouri’s launching from Brooklyn Navy Yard and 12th anniversary of the ship’s opening as a memorial in Pearl Harbor.

The date also marked one year since the ship re-opened to visitors following her return from drydock at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard for maintenance and preservation work. That investment is proving well worth it. The Battleship Missouri experienced record success in 2010, and last month we wanted to show our appreciation to the military and local communities who have played such important parts in preserving the Missouri for future generations and making her one of Oahu’s top attractions.

It’s fitting for those who defend our nation and call Hawaii home to have this special opportunity to experience what many of them have helped to create.

Mahalo for your continued support!

– Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

December 2010 Message

Aloha from the Mighty Mo … and Happy Holidays!

In past issues of Broadside, I’ve remarked how eventful our last two years have been. Well, the pace has scarcely slowed, and that is a very good thing.

We are sustaining the forward momentum from our 2009 drydocking and early 2010 reopening to launch several new projects at the Battleship Missouri Memorial, ranging from the Teak Deck Restoration Project, to gun installations and restorations, to upgrading our Battleship Passport student tour. Read all about these exciting programs in this issue.

Indeed, we have a lot to be thankful for at the Missouri. As we near the close of yet another successful year, I want to take this opportunity to thank our volunteers and supporters. It is because of them (and you!), combined with the dedication of our hard-working staff, that the Missouri is achieving success year after year and solidifying her role as an essential part of the Pearl Harbor experience.

Mahalo for your continued support!

– Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

October 2010 Message

Friends of the Mighty Mo who happened to see the pilot episode of Hawaii Five-0 may have found themselves doing a quick double-take. Yes, that was the Battleship Missouri featured in CBS’ reboot of the iconic TV series. In this issue of Broadside, read about this and other productions that will be bringing the Mighty Mo to a screen near you.

Also in this issue, you will read about last month’s WWII 65th anniversary commemoration, as well as our Volunteer of the Month, refurbishment of the Missouri’s teak decks, and how we are incorporating 3D Computer Aided Design and STEM education into our youth programs.

This continues to be an exciting and successful year for the Missouri. Mahalo for your continued support!

– Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

September 2010 Message

Commemoration Week is upon us. For those of you who will be joining us at one of the many events we have planned to mark the 65th anniversary of the end of World War II, I look forward to meeting you and perhaps personally thanking you for your support.

In the meantime, in this issue of Broadside, you’ll read about an opportunity for your friends and family to contribute toward the preservation of the Missouri while they shop for groceries. Find out which featured retail items our online store is offering to Friends of the Mighty Mo at special pricing. Learn about our volunteer of the month, and see how our Engineering Department is putting their skills to the test getting the Missouri ship-shape for commemorative events and a couple “cameo” appearances.

You can take great pride in your part in the stewardship of the Battleship Missouri. Looking back over our first decade — and especially the last year — it is clear that there is no place more fitting for the Missouri than Pearl Harbor, completing an epic story from defeat to victory.

– Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

June 2010 Message

Earlier this month, I was proud to personally welcome aboard the Battleship Missouri Memorial’s four-millionth visitor!

Just after 11 a.m. on June 4, we surprised Rachel Chmiel of Atlanta, Georgia, with the news as she stepped onto the main deck. Rachel happened to be visiting Hawaii with her husband, Tim Saviello, and two children, Wylie, 5, and Zeke, 6. We were happy to offer the family a free tour along with several gifts.

Rachel and her family have ties to Hawaii and the military. Her father served on the USS Chikaskia (AO-54). Also, Tim was born on Oahu at Tripler Army Medical Center, where his father worked as a doctor.

We want to thank Rachel and her family for helping the Battleship Missouri Memorial reach this significant milestone. It has been less than five months since the Missouri returned from drydock, completing $18 million worth of needed maintenance and preservation work. That investment is proving true as visitors continue to flock to the Missouri at a rate of approximately 1,400 per day, taking advantage of the rich historical experience that we and our sister Pearl Harbor historic sites have to offer.

In fact, that success has prompted us to extend our visitor hours, opening 90 minutes earlier to accommodate increased visitor demand. The Missouri is now welcoming visitors from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The extended hours will remain in effect through Labor Day, following our ceremony commemorating the 65th anniversary of the end of World War II on Sept. 2. If visitor demand remains high, we will consider making the extended hours permanent.

Thank you for your support and being an instrumental part of our success.

– Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

April 2010 Message

I am proud to announce our involvement in a national project to let our troops know how much we appreciate their dedication to serving our country.

Following the March 4 Honolulu screening of HBO’s new WWII dramatic series, “The Pacific,” HBO and the Battleship Missouri Memorial have partnered to give Pearl Harbor visitors the opportunity to record video “thank you” messages that will become part of a national tribute to our Armed Forces.

Select video tributes will be collected via special kiosks at the Missouri for a montage that will appear on HBO.com and will be distributed through partnerships with military and veteran’s organizations.

The Battleship Missouri Memorial is committed to honoring those who served our country and recognizing the sacrifices and contributions of our active duty soldiers and their families. In fact, it is our daily honor to host military ceremonies, ranging from reenlistments, to promotions, to retirements, free of charge for individual service members.

Mahalo for your continued support of our ongoing efforts.

– Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

February 2010 Message

Experience what you have helped to preserve.

Ship-shape following 12 weeks and $18 million worth of maintenance and preservation work in Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard’s largest drydock facility, the Battleship Missouri returned on Jan. 7 to her home pier near the USS Arizona Memorial. The return once again brings full circle the story that begins with the day of infamy that saw the sinking of USS Arizona in Pearl Harbor and ends with Imperial Japan’s unconditional surrender aboard USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay.

The Battleship Missouri Memorial’s formal grand re-opening will be held on Jan. 30. I would like to personally invite you to experience the newly refurbished Mighty Mo that day. On Jan. 30, admission will be offered free to kama‘aina (Hawaii residents) and military personnel so that these important communities can see first-hand what they have helped to accomplish. Read more in the Special Event section of this issue.

Please join us in celebrating the Mighty Mo’s return to Battleship Row.

Mahalo for your continued support!

– Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

 
December 2009 Message

It would be an understatement to say that 2009 has been an eventful year for the Battleship Missouri Memorial. The drydocking of the Missouri and all that has gone into the project has indeed been as large and engrossing an endeavor as it has been historic and awe-inspiring. In this month’s Engineering Update, read more about how we have successfully reached a major project milestone that clears the path for the Mighty Mo’s return to Battleship Row on Jan. 7.

The phenomenal successes of our visitor and educational operations have been just as inspiring. Even with our nearly three-month closure for drydocking, 2009 will be one of our most successful years. Despite an overall decline in visitors to Oahu, we experienced an increase in visitors and student visits this past summer. In fact, July 2009 was a record year for our total visitor numbers. It just goes to show that there remains a strong interest in our country’s history. We are looking forward to welcome well over 400,000 visitors in 2010 after we reopen in late January.

I encourage you to visit us in 2010 to see and experience what you have made possible. Mahalo for your continued support!

– Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

November 2009 Message

Shortly after sunrise on Oct. 14, the Battleship Missouri left her pierside home on Pearl Harbor’s Battleship Row for the first time in more than 11 years. It was quite a sight to see, as there are no longer any battleships in the active U.S. Navy fleet and it is unlikely there will be another drydocking of a U.S. battleship in Hawaii for decades to come.

As the Mighty Mo crossed the sill into drydock, our non-profit organization temporarily entrusted the historic ship to Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard and BAE Systems Ship Repair for three months of maintenance and preservation work. Shipyard engineers and workers docked the 887-foot vessel on more than 300 8-ton keel blocks, expertly and precisely on schedule.

If you missed our “Mighty Move,” I encourage you to visit the Engineering Update in this issue of Broadside, where we have included links to news stories that ran around the world.

Overall, the ship is in good shape, but we can see that time and the elements have begun to have their affect. It is clear that we made the right decision to go into drydock now. BAE Systems, with a 90 percent local workforce, have begun sandblasting and conducting repairs. By mid-December, preservation work will begin to fortify the ship’s underwater hull and superstructure against the elements for the next several decades.

Mahalo for your continued support, which has helped to make this project possible and remains so essential to our efforts to preserve the legacy of the Battleship Missouri.

– Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

October 2009 Message

The date for the Battleship Missouri’s drydocking is finally upon us. It has been a long time coming, made possible with the help of our dedicated staff, volunteers and supporters, and our partners at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard and BAE Systems Ship Repair.

But the real work has only just begun. Read this month's Engineering Update for a complete rundown of the herculean feat of towing Missouri into drydock and an overview of the work to be performed.

Of course, the Battleship Missouri Memorial will be closed as a result (the last day to visit is Oct. 9) but we look forward to welcoming you back aboard a revitalized Mighty Mo in January. Also, with the memorial closed, our staff will be busy visiting schools and conducting other community outreach programs as part of our “Mobile Mighty Mo” effort. Read more about this in the Education Update.

Watch for more news in future Broadside issues. Your support as a Friend of the Mighty Mo member is important to us, and it is therefore our priority to keep you up-to-date on how our projects and programs are progressing.

Mahalo for your continued support!

– Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

September 2009 Message

Last month, we warned our members that, due to the Missouri’s upcoming drydocking, they should not be surprised if stories about the Mighty Mo started to appear more frequently in the media. This turned out to be prophetic.

In case you missed recent stories that ran across the United States about the drydocking project and our ceremony on Sept. 2 commemorating the 64th anniversary of the end of World War II, link to them below. We greatly appreciate all the messages of support we received from veterans and members as a result!

Read this month’s newsletter for additional updates on the progress of drydocking and other projects.

Mahalo for your continued support!

– Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

August 2009 Message

Aloha from the Mighty Mo! Missouri’s date with drydock is fast approaching, tentatively set from October to December of this year. We greatly appreciate the support of all those involved in the planning and preparation, including Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard, BAE Systems, Navy Region Hawaii and, of course, our staff, volunteers and members.

I would like to invite you to attend one of the last events to be held on Missouri before she goes into drydock. Please join us on Wednesday, Sept. 2, for our annual ceremony commemorating “The End of the War in the Pacific.” Read more about this ceremony in the SPECIAL EVENTS section of this newsletter.

Also, I am looking forward to my upcoming visit to the State of Missouri in late September, when I’ll have the pleasure to meet many Missourians interested in the progress of their state’s namesake. Read more about two friendship receptions being planned during this visit in this month’s DEVELOPMENT DEBRIEF.

Mahalo for your continuing support!

Michael A Carr
President & Chief Operating Officer

July 2009 Message

This Independence Day, as we reflect on the principles and values on which our nation was founded, it is fitting that the USS Missouri Memorial Association is preparing to embark on its single largest project to-date in the preservation of one of the greatest icons of America afloat.

As early as this fall, Missouri may become the first battleship to be drydocked in Pearl Harbor since the World War II era. We are currently in talks with Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard and BAE Systems about drydocking the 887-foot battleship for maintenance and preservation work following the summer season.

It is anticipated that Missouri will be drydocked for no more than 60 to 90 days. An exact timeframe is being established. Until then, we continue to welcome visitors.

Explore this issue of Broadside for information about our ongoing programs and preliminary information on pre-drydock preparations. As “Friends of the Mighty Mo” members, you will continue to be among the first to hear about our drydocking plans through Broadside and other member communications.

Thank you for your continuing support.

Michael A Carr
President & Chief Operating Officer

June 2009 Message

Throughout May, the State of Hawai‘i saluted our troops with a series of Military Appreciation Month events and activities. The Battleship Missouri Memorial was front and center, serving as the venue for the official Hawai‘i Military Appreciation Month opening ceremony and offering free admission to military families on Memorial Day.June 2009 Message Throughout May, the State of Hawai‘i saluted our troops with a series of Military Appreciation Month events and activities. The Battleship Missouri Memorial was front and center, serving as the venue for the official Hawai‘i Military Appreciation Month opening ceremony and offering free admission to military families on Memorial Day.

You can read more about the Hawai‘i Military Appreciation Month opening ceremony in this issue of Broadside. Also in this issue, you will meet outstanding (and imposing) volunteer Rich Costick, receive a sneak peek at a planned upgrade to our fantail special event capabilities, and see exclusive photos from the cleaning of Missouri’s underwater hull.

We have a lot of great news to share this month at the Mighty Mo. Thank you for your continuing support of our efforts to preserve this irreplaceable ship for the generations of tomorrow.

– Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

May 2009 Message

In this issue of Broadside, you'll read how the Battleship Missouri Memorial is reaching out to youth through special programs and technology to share the history of America's last battleship with future generations.

Under Special Events, read how the Missouri is hosting school bands and choirs on nearly a daily basis throughout springtime. Discover how the Missouri is tailoring our educational programs to help Boy Scouts work toward the completion of their American Heritage Merit Badge. Our Engineering Department has great news about recent ship upgrades that will further expand our overnight youth encampment experience.

The Missouri is even on Twitter. Follow @USSMissouri on Twitter.com if you'd like to keep track of our latest “tweets.”

Lastly, if you haven't tried the Missouri's “Guide2Go” tour, it's worth a go. We've put Apple Inc. iPod “touch” units to work for this new tour experience, an option that is proving to be especially popular among our younger visitors. Our fleet of new iPod touch units are pre-loaded with an unprecedented amount of video footage, audio recordings and veteran interviews so that our visitors have the option of walking and experiencing the Missouri at their own pace without missing out on any part of her history. For more information about the Guide2Go, visit www.ussmissouri.org and click on the iPod image.

We hope to see you aboard the Mighty Mo again soon!

– Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

April 2009 Message

I hope you enjoy reading this issue of Broadside, full of exclusive specials and stories for our readers.

Click on the various departments at right to read about this month’s featured retail item; meet our volunteer of the month, Pauline Lynch; discover what our Education Department has planned to keep the learning going throughout the upcoming summer break; and get an update from our Engineering Department.

Best of all, read an account from a Missouri WWII crewmember Wendell Allen about the battleship passing through the Panama Canal — it’s a personal account that you won’t necessarily find in the history books.

Mahalo for your continued support of the Battleship Missouri Memorial.

– Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

March 2009 Message

I would like to begin this issue of Broadside with a special invitation to join an exclusive club. In celebration of the Battleship Missouri Memorial’s 10th year in operation, we have formed the Golden Rivet Circle.

Much like our Plank Owner’s program when we first opened, the new Golden Rivet Circle gives special recognition to those who give at a certain level throughout our 10th anniversary year. Become a “Riveter” yourself, or give on behalf of another. Read more about this special program here.

Also in this issue of Broadside, you will read about the unforgettable “Hawaii’s Mightiest Chef Cook-Off and Food Festival,” hosted by the Battleship Missouri Memorial in honor of not only our 10th anniversary as a memorial, but also the 65th anniversary of the Battleship Missouri’s launch from Brooklyn Navy Yard.

Explore this issue further for a visit to our online store, see the curator’s featured item of the month, meet our Volunteer of the Month, and read about students’ impressions of the Missouri as one of the world’s most unique educational venues.

Mahalo for your continued support.

– Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

February 2009 Message

The Battleship Missouri Memorial began the year at full throttle with two unique and highly successful special events: “Hawaii’s Mightiest Chef Cook-Off & Food Festival” on Jan. 31, in celebration of our 10th anniversary; and a special Valentine’s Day “Friends & Film on the Fantail,” one of four fantail events planned this year for members like you.

For those who joined us, mahalo! But we are only just beginning our voyage through 2009.

In this issue, you’ll read about the completion of the Battleship Missouri Dental Clinic Restoration Project, which set the stage for our new dental health lesson program and a special “Life at Sea” tour.

Also, read about our volunteer of the month, the dauntless Clement “Clem” Rodrigues, as well as a special memento from one of the USS Missouri’s historic stops at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyards in the aftermath of World War II.

Lastly, I am pleased to announce that our aft boarding brow elevators nearing full installation, making the battleship more accessible for all of our visitors and special event guests.

Thank you, to each of our members. Your support played its part in each of these achievements.

– Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

January 2009 Message

While the Battleship Missouri may be named after the “Show Me” state, and today calls Hawaii home, she’s also a Brooklyn lady. This January marks the 65th anniversary of the Missouri’s launching from Brooklyn Navy Yard, New York. It also happens to be the 10th anniversary of the Battleship Missouri Memorial’s grand opening in Pearl Harbor.

The simultaneous arrival of these milestone anniversaries reminds us of all that we have accomplished, and all that remains as we shape the Missouri’s second decade as a memorial … and beyond. You will hear a lot of great news from the Missouri this year. Not the least of which is the announcement that the Missouri will drydock in Pearl Harbor in late 2009 for maintenance and preservation. Watch for future editions of Broadside for more information as it develops.

In the meantime, to mark these two anniversaries, I’d like to invite all our members to the inaugural “Hawaii’s Mightiest Chef” cook-off, presented by Bank of Hawaii, Kahala Caterers and TriWest Healthcare Alliance on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2009, in the shadow of the “Mighty Mo,” herself. All-day admission will be free for all Friends of the Mighty Mo members, as well as kama‘aina (local residents), active and retired military, and military dependents with valid ID.

Top prizes will be awarded for best civilian and military participants, with the designation of “Hawaii’s Mightiest Chef” going to the best of show selection. A special panel of judges from private and public sectors will convene to preside over the ceremonies. The cook-off will be just one highlight of a daylong celebration, also featuring food for purchase, including cook-off entry selections, and live entertainment on the pier.

We are grateful for the phenomenal support received throughout the last decade from visitors, volunteers, supporters and partners — each of whom have helped to make the Battleship Missouri Memorial the fifth-most visited paid attraction in the state. With this event, we want to say “thank you” with a truly fun and food-filled day that will attract visitors, local residents and the military community alike.

I look forward to see you there.

– Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

December 2008 Message

Aloha,

This holiday season, we ask that you consider giving the gift of history. A membership to the Friends of the Mighty Mo is a wonderful way to express how you value the legacy set forth by our veterans, as well as instilling that value in future generations.

In doing so, you will also know that you are helping to preserve the Battleship Missouri and the expansion of our educational programs for those of all ages. Now during our 10th anniversary, we need your help more than ever to sustain the educational programs and services offered through this national treasure.

In particular, your donation will help fund the continued development of the “Mighty Mo Campus” and our Wounded Warriors Volunteers program. These initiatives have proven invaluable in truly bringing history to life for students throughout the State of Hawaii and those visiting from abroad, and in providing veterans essential rehabilitation support as they transition back into civilian life.

As you celebrate our shared traditions of brotherhood and peace with your loved ones, please take a moment to give a gift to remember.

The coming year will present some very exciting developments here at the Battleship Missouri Memorial, as we carry the momentum of our first decade into the next and beyond. Please join us on this continuing journey.

In honor of those who have gone before us, I wish you a warm holiday season and a happy and successful new year.

– Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

November 2008 Message

Aloha, It is Thanksgiving Season and we continue to appreciate our supporters who participate in our events. Veterans Day this year had more than 300 people attend to continue our legacy of honoring Armistice Day or Remembrance Day, a commemoration of the signing of the armistice that ended World War I — formalized in 1918 at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. The date has since evolved into an annual day of remembrance, honoring all veterans -- our Veteran's Day. The Battleship Missouri Memorial was proud that many of our members joined us aboard the “Mighty Mo” to salute our nation’s present and former military personnel at our annual Veterans Day Sunset Ceremony on Tuesday as well as our our Fall "Film on the Fantail Series" movie event for the "Friends of the MightyMo" on the following Saturday. With the spectacular backdrop of Ford Island at sunset, these two events once again pay powerful tribute to those who make our events so memorable, including a return performance by traditional four-part harmonic barbershop-style Sounds of Aloha Chorus on Veteran's day, and the generous display and arrival of multiple motorcyles by the Combat Veteran's Association before the Saturday movie. If you were unable to attend on Veterans Day, we invite you to attend a special blessing and soft opening of our new Crew's Room on the December 7th, 2008 in the afternoon. This new location showcases collection items of original crew members. For more information, call 455-1600 x 235 or RSVP online today! If you are unable to visit the ship, consider participating remotely in our NEW online Annual Contribution Survey by December 20th, 2008. Ten short questions help us understand how to better serve both current and lapsed contributors and make plans for the 2009 year to review feedback that will help us better achieve our 501(c)3 nonprofit mission. The survey results will be summarized and shared in our the January issue of our Broadside E-Newsletter. If you are looking for a unique gift, look forward to our end of year retail promotions and online gift store in the December edition of our online Broadside e-newsletter. Until then, our monthly promotions are summarized on the retail showcase for your preview. There are many ways to participate and appreciate your support! Hope to see you again soon at the Battleship Missouri Memorial. Mahalo for your continued support. – Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

October 2008

Aloha Friends, As many of you know, while best known as the site of Japan’s unconditional surrender that ended World War II, the Missouri has fought in two other wars – Korean War and Desert Storm. As is becoming an annual tradition, the Battleship Missouri Memorial will present its Veterans Day Sunset Ceremony to salute our nation’s valiant men and women in uniform, past and present. This year’s ceremony will be held on Tuesday, November 11, from 4:45 to 5:45 p.m., on the battleship’s fantail. I wish to extend an invitation to you, our members, and your friends and family to attend the ceremony, which is free and open to the public. With the theme, “We remember the sacrifices of our veterans,” the ceremony will salute all United States veterans who have and continue to selflessly defend our nation and freedom. This year, our association is pleased to welcome author James D. Hornfischer as the ceremony’s keynote speaker. Mr. Hornfischer is the author of two works of World War II naval history, including “Ship of Ghosts: The Story of the USS Houston, FDR’s Legendary Lost Cruiser, and the Epic Saga of Her Survivors.” We are also proud to announce guest speaker Commander Michael Lewis, commanding officer of the submarine USS Houston (SSN-713). In addition, we are expecting 70 members of the USS Houston Survivors Association (CA-30) and Next Generations, many of whom will be traveling from Texas to attend the ceremony. Among them will be five USS Houston survivors. Please join us in honoring our veterans on this special day. With the spectacular backdrop of Ford Island at sunset and a return performance by the Sounds of Aloha Chorus, the ceremony will truly be a memorable one. I look forward to seeing you on November 11. Mahalo for your continued support. – Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

September 2008

Aloha Friends,

Sixty-three years ago in Tokyo Bay, peace was restored to the world. Beginning at 9:02 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 2, 1945, the surrender aboard the USS Missouri took less than half an hour, but it changed the course of history. World War II was over …

It was so very different from what began on another Sunday, Dec. 7, four years earlier. Today, the 1,000 feet that separate the sunken USS Arizona from the retired Missouri in Pearl Harbor represent those long, uncertain years and — in the words of General Douglas Macarthur — “the thousands of silent lips, forever stilled among the jungles and the beaches and in the deep waters of the pacific which marked the way.” The way to Tokyo Bay. The way to peace.

This year on Sept. 2, the Battleship Missouri Memorial commemorated the anniversary of this historic event, saluting our World War II veterans. I would like to express our sincere appreciation to all those who contributed to the success of the ceremony, attended by approximately 300 veterans, active-duty military, residents and visitors.

We were pleased to present such a moving event as a venue for our keynote speaker, U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka, and guest speaker Captain Gregory Thomas, Commander of Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility. We were honored by the attendance of Admiral Timothy J. Keating, Commander, U.S. Pacific Command, as well as several Hawaii-based military commands, local elected officials and foreign representatives.

We also warmly welcomed back to their ship Art Albert, Walter Lassen and Bill Obitz, three USS Missouri veterans who served during World War II and who each were witness to Japan’s unconditional surrender.

To all the courageous soldiers, sailors, marines, airmen, coastguardsmen and merchant marines who victoriously defended freedom and the world from tyranny, we say thank you.

You remain our heroes.

Michael A. Carr
President & Chief Operating Officer
Battleship Missouri Memorial

 

August 2008

Aloha Friends,

Upon accepting the helm of the Battleship Missouri Memorial, I was humbled by her sheer size and even larger legacy. I was also immensely proud of my new role as president and chief operating officer, leading the preservation, maintenance and operation of a national treasure and piece of world history.

It is with that same humility and pride that I wish to personally invite you, our members, to a very special event. On September 2, the Battleship Missouri Memorial will commemorate the 63rd anniversary of the end of World War II with a ceremony featuring keynote speaker United States Senator Daniel K. Akaka, and guest speaker Captain Gregory R. Thomas, Commander, Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility.

Titled “The End of the War in the Pacific,” the annual ceremony will be held from 8:45 to 9:45 a.m. on the Missouri’s fantail. It will be free and open to the public, so bring your friends and family.

Please join us on this special day in commemoration of the valiant individuals who defended freedom during some of the darkest days of human history. The USS Missouri’s pivotal role as the site of Japan’s formal surrender on September 2, 1945, forged an enduring icon of duty, honor, strength, resolve and sacrifice. At this astonishing moment in history, the guns were silenced and the eyes of the world turned toward a lone battleship, a mighty vessel that would henceforth become a symbol of peace.

Read more about our ceremony in this issue of Broadside. Also in this issue, find updates on our fundraising efforts, other upcoming special events, our volunteers and collections. I look forward to seeing you on September 2.

Mahalo nui loa for your continuing support.

Michael A. Carr
President & Chief Operating Officer
Battleship Missouri Memorial

 

July 2008

Aloha Friends,

As we launch the Battleship Missouri’s second decade in Hawaii, I am pleased to announce that Michael A. Carr, a well-respected leader in the local visitor, non-profit and banking industries, will take the helm as president and chief operating officer.

Mr. Carr will work closely with our Board of Directors, staff and volunteers to oversee and administer the continuing refurbishment of the “Mighty Mo” and her operation as a private, non-profit historic attraction in Pearl Harbor. He joins the Missouri from Bank of Hawaii, where he served as vice president of Family Wealth Management. Previously, he was the president of Polynesian Adventure Tours, one of Hawaii’s largest private tour and transportation companies, and was also the president of the Hawaii Convention Park Council, a non-profit organization that promoted the building of the Hawaii Convention Center.

Mr. Carr’s vast knowledge and experience in finance and the visitor and non-profit industries will prove invaluable as he helps to lead the Battleship Missouri Memorial into the next chapter in its history. As you know, his appointment comes as our memorial is finalizing a comprehensive plan for drydocking the Missouri, taking into account both the long-term needs of the ship and the best interests of staff, volunteers, partners and visitors.

In the meantime, the Battleship Missouri Memorial is welcoming visitors and continuing business as usual. She remains in good hands.

On behalf of my fellow Board members, our staff and our volunteers, I invite you to extend Michael and his wife, Connie, a warm welcome aboard the Missouri’s present-day crew.

VADM Robert K.U. Kihune, USN (Ret.)
Chairman

“I am honored and privileged to be entrusted with the stewardship of the Battleship Missouri Memorial, one of our greatest national treasures. I look forward to devoting my efforts to building upon the Missouri’s already successful programs and the continuing preservation of her formidable legacy.”

– Michael A. Carr, President & Chief Operating Officer

 

 

June 2008 Message

Aloha Friends,

June marks the 10th anniversary of the Battleship Missouri’s final journey to Hawaii, beginning her second life as a memorial, historic attraction and phenomenal educational experience.

As we look back, there is much of which to be proud. Today, the Battleship Missouri Memorial is the fifth-most visited paid attraction on the island of Oahu. We have welcomed more than 3.5 million visitors and benefited from an army of volunteers (55,000 to date). Several areas previously unseen by the public have been opened to daily visitor tours: Broadway, an engine room, the brig, portions of CPO country, two main gun turrets and more.

As we look forward, we are thankful for the support that we continue to receive. Refurbishing, operating and maintaining a nearly 65-year-old battleship is a never-ending job. As you may have read in the newspaper, we are in the process of finalizing a comprehensive plan for upcoming industrial-level work, including dry-docking the Missouri, which takes into account both the long-term needs of the ship and the best interests of staff, volunteers, partners and visitors. We anticipate that the Missouri will be in dry-dock for no more than 60 to 90 days, and are working with the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard to establish an exact timeframe.

We are grateful to the 2008 Hawaii State Legislature for designating $250,000 toward this work. For the support of our elected officials and the State of Hawaii, we extend a heart-fell mahalo.

Until then, the Battleship Missouri Memorial is welcoming visitors and continuing business as usual. I encourage you to take advantage of her membership privileges to experience the latest visitor experiences aboard the Mighty Mo, such as the Weapons Tour and Generations Tour available only throughout June. The tours are free for Friends of the Mighty Mo members. We would be happy to thank you for your continuing support in person.

VADM Robert K.U. Kihune, USN (Ret.)
Chairman & Interim President
Battleship Missouri Memorial

 

May 2008 Message

Every May, Hawaii’s government, business and community leaders gather to recognize, celebrate and say “mahalo” to our locally based military and their families. This year marks the 23rd Annual Hawaii Military Appreciation Month (HMAM), which provides the community the opportunity to personally share our aloha with our troops.

On April 24, the Battleship Missouri Memorial had the honor of hosting the HMAM opening ceremony, which this year was attended by more than 800 distinguished military and community members. The opening ceremony kicked off the month-long recognition of our Armed Forces and their legacy of duty, honor, strength, resolve and sacrifice.

The Battleship Missouri Memorial is pleased to offer the use of the Missouri to conduct military enlistments, reenlistments, and promotion ceremonies year round that are free of charge to service members of any branch and their guests. Additionally, service members in uniform who desire to tour the Missouri will receive free admission.

Memorial Day, traditionally observed on the last Monday of May, commemorates all fallen U.S. men and women who gave their lives in military service to their country. The Battleship Missouri Memorial is proud to be partnering with our fellow Pearl Harbor Historic Sites in offering complimentary general admission to all active-duty, reserve and retired U.S. military personnel and their dependants on Memorial Day, May 26.

Please join with me, our memorial staff and volunteers this May — and throughout the year — in personally offering our service members the recognition and mahalo that they deserve.

Vice Adm. Robert K.U. Kihune, USN (Ret.)
Chairman & Interim President
Battleship Missouri Memorial

The Battleship Missouri is illuminated in red, white and blue for the 23rd annual Hawaii Military Appreciation Month opening ceremony. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Paul D. Honnick.

April 2008 Message

 

The board of directors, staff and volunteers of the Battleship Missouri Memorial bid a fond farewell to retired Captain Donald R. Hess, USN (Ret.), who stepped down last month from his role as President and Chief Operating Officer of the memorial.

CAPT Hess has led the memorial’s day-to-day operations since June 2002. His service to the Missouri began in January 1998 as Vice President of Operations, where he was charged with orchestrating the tow of the vessel from Bremerton, Washington, to Pearl Harbor and opening the ship for visitation. Since that time, the Battleship Missouri Memorial has become the seventh-most visited paid attraction in Hawaii, hosting more than 400,000 visitors annually and employing more than 125 full- and part-time staff.

Born in Des Moines, Iowa, Hess first came to Hawaii in 1961 as a midshipman in the Navy. Subsequently, he returned for military service in the mid-1960s and mid-1990s, retired as a Navy captain and became a permanent Hawaii resident in 1995.

It has been a personal honor to work with CAPT Hess over the years in stewarding the restoration and maintenance of the Mighty Mo and her transformation into a successful model for battleship museums. No less than any other, he and his wife, Joy, have helped to make that vision conceived by our founders a reality as we approach our 10th year in Hawaii this June. That vision will continue to be carried forward by our dedicated board of directors, devoted and talented staff, enthusiastic volunteers, and innumerable partners and supporters from the community and around the globe.

Vice Admiral Robert K.U. Kihune, USN (Ret.)
Chairman of the Board
Missouri Memorial Association

March 2008 Message

On April 23, 1998, a small band of individuals sharing a singular, inspired vision for America’s last battleship traveled from Honolulu to Bremerton, Washington, to prepare the long-since decommissioned Battleship Missouri for her final voyage to Pearl Harbor. The massive ship was a shadow of her former glory, seemingly resting sadly by herself, largely unvisited and uncared for in the gray and gloomy mist of the Pacific Northwest springtime. Who would have known that just 10 years and more than three million visitors later, they’d be looking at a success story?

Well, they knew. That was their intention, after all.

Nearly a decade has passed since the people of Hawaii opened their arms and accepted the challenge of caring for the “Mighty Mo,” a 100 million-pound historic artifact. Since that spring day and the Missouri’s epic journey to Hawaii, the Battleship Missouri Memorial has become the seventh-most visited paid attraction in the 50th State, hosting more than 400,000 visitors annually and employing more than 125 full and part-time staff.

This success was made possible by the tireless care and hard work of our board of directors and staff, but equally due to our visitors, an incredible army of more than 55,000 volunteers, and the continuing support of donors. We have made great strides in the refurbishment and expansion of the Missouri’s visitor and educational experiences. We have demonstrated that it is possible to operate a battleship museum using a sound business model, forging mutually beneficial partnerships with other Pearl Harbor historic sites, every branch of the Armed Forces and the local community.

Through this ship, we remember, we honor and we educate. Our commitment to preserving and perpetuating her extraordinary legacy is as steadfast as battleship steel. And so, the story of the Battleship Missouri continues.

CAPT Donald R. Hess, USN (Ret.)
President & Chief Operating Officer
Battleship Missouri Memorial

January 2008 Message

As we launch an exciting new year of activities and programs at the Battleship Missouri Memorial, we look forward with great anticipation toward June, marking the 10th anniversary of the Missouri’s internationally covered arrival in Hawaii. The achievement of this milestone is testament to the success and progress we have made over the last decade in establishing a self-sustaining, world-class battleship memorial. We invite you to visit our new communication network for Friends of the Mighty Mo at www.mightymomembers.org. In the meantime, January was full of some very important annual celebrations and meetings: On Jan. 7, we held our annual staff and crew party to celebrate the continued commitment of our most important asset: our people! On Jan. 16, we held our quarterly “All Hands On Deck” full staff meeting to update our employees on maintenance and program plans for 2008. On Jan. 19, we recognized the contributions of our members and volunteers at our annual Member and Volunteer Appreciation Day. This year, we offered tours to the new USS Oklahoma Memorial and a special “white boat” tour of Pearl Harbor, followed by a visit aboard the active-service USS Chafee (DDG-90). The day was completed with a recognition reception for members and volunteers on the Missouri’s fantail. We are delighted that our staff, members, volunteers and leadership are working together to make 2008 the best year possible. CAPT Don Hess, USN (Ret.)President & Chief Operating OfficerBattleship Missouri Memorial

December 2007 Message

 

The Battleship Missouri is excited to launch our first online “Broadside” newsletter and “Friends of the Mighty Mo” announcement system! We are fast approaching the 10 Year Anniversary of the arrival of the ship in Hawaii. June 18, 2008 marks the arrival of the ship and January 29, 2009 marks the opening of the ship to the public. We have had a “Decade of Success” and look forward to sharing our plans for the upcoming years in future editions.

This newsletter and announcement tool will help us keep you informed of our 10 Year Anniversary Campaign exhibits and activities. For example, we are planning our upcoming Membership and Volunteer Appreciation Day on January 19th, 2008.

Each month we will send out this online newsletter which details how we are achieving our mission, shares special stories on key volunteers, showcases a supporter, promotes special retail products, and shares a collection item from our archives.

You are invited to share this announcement tool with partners who may be interested in sending out messages to a vast subscriber network that is committed to the Pearl Harbor area! If you would like to send a special announcement to our network, please contact us at development@ussmissouri.org for details and launch dates.

Take a moment to read our first edition and share your feedback!

Sincerely,

CAPT Don Hess, USN (Ret.)
President & Chief Operating Officer
Battleship Missouri Memorial

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