U.S. National Guard members get free entry this weekend to Pearl Harbor Historic Sites

U.S. National Guard service members — active duty, retirees, their dependents and veterans — get “free pass days” this weekend to the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites in celebration of the Guard’s birthday Dec. 13.

“Free pass days” on Dec. 13-14 allow Guard members to enjoy free admission to the Battleship Missouri Memorial, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum and Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, plus free self-guided audio tours and the Pearl Harbor Virtual Reality Experience from Pacific Historic Parks.

A valid military ID must be presented at the ticket and information booth at the Pearl Harbor Visitors Center or onsite at each of the historic sites.

Dec. 13 marks the date in 1636 when the Massachusetts Bay Colony organized its first militia regiments for colonial defense, making it the oldest military organization in the United States — a dual state-federal force for homeland security and overseas missions.

The Pearl Harbor Historic Sites welcome more than 1.5 million visitors each year. They include three independent memorials and are operated by private, nonprofit organizations.

Together, in partnership, they carry forth the legacies of several of the nation’s most treasured icons, enduring tributes to the valor and sacrifices of U.S. veterans during a time when the future of the nation and the world truly hung in the balance.

The result is a powerful visitor destination and cumulative educational experience that has grown.

Visit the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites website for additional information.