The National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, located in the Punchbowl Crater of Honolulu, Hawaii, serves as a significant site for honoring military personnel who lost their lives in service to the United States, particularly during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.
The cemetery’s history dates back to proposals before World War II, but it became a necessity following the war’s heavy casualties. The site, originally called Puowaina, was chosen due to its geographical prominence and strategic location.
Construction of the cemetery began in 1948, with the cemetery officially opening in 1949. Over time, it expanded, with a significant addition being the Honolulu Memorial in 1966, located opposite the cemetery’s entrance.
The Memorial is highlighted by the striking statue of Lady Columbia, a symbol of honor and sacrifice, standing at the top of a long staircase. Beneath her statue is a poignant inscription that reflects the solemn nature of the site: “The solemn pride that must be yours to have laid so costly a sacrifice upon the altar of freedom.”
The Memorial features galleries showcasing maps of major battles in World War II and the Korean War, while nearby courts list the names of missing soldiers from those conflicts as well as the Vietnam War.
In addition to its role as a resting place for fallen soldiers, the cemetery is the final resting place for several notable individuals, particularly those with strong ties to Hawaii. Among them are Daniel K. Inouye, the long-serving U.S. Senator and World War II hero; Ernest Pyle, the Pulitzer Prize-winning war correspondent; Norman Keith Collins Sailor Jerry, renowned for his tattoo art; and Ellison Onizuka, Hawaii’s first astronaut who perished in the Challenger disaster.
While the cemetery serves as a somber location, it is also known for its scenic views, especially from the makai or ocean-facing side of the crater.
From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Hawaii State Capitol, Downtown Honolulu, Waikiki, and Diamond Head.
The cemetery is also a familiar landmark in Hawaii’s cultural landscape, having appeared in numerous films and television shows, including the original Hawaii Five-O series, where it is depicted as the resting place of lead character Steve McGarrett’s father.
This historic cemetery stands as a tribute to the sacrifices made by countless individuals in defense of freedom and is a place for reflection, honoring the past, and recognizing the enduring legacy of those who served.