USS Bowfin Submarine

The USS Bowfin was a fleet submarine of the United States Navy launched on 7^th December 1942, just one day after the attack of Pearl Harbor. Therefore, she was nicknamed the "Pearl Harbor Avenger" and now it is docked permanently at the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park at the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites.

On the deck of the submarine are two anti-aircraft guns for the Submarine's self defence when she is emerged.

After entering the main hull of the submarine, the first thing I saw was the torpedo launching tubes. They were so well polished that they appeared to be brand new.

Deeper inside the main hull are a lounge, some bunkers and an office.

Towards the end of the main hull are engine rooms and a communication chamber with many dials, valves and other mechanical and electronic stuff.

And of course, a vessel with so many crew members cannot do without a toilet.

Further inside are more control dials and consoles which I couldn't understand. Manning a submarine is not as easy as we think. Turning a wrong valve or lever may turn into a major disaster.

Pearl Harbor Historic Sites

The sightseeing activity is not complete in Hawaii without visiting the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites. The sites include the World War II Valor in the Pacific National Museum, USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park, Battleship Missouri Memorial, and the Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor.

The entrance fee is a bit too steep for an average Malaysian like myself. It set me back USD49.00 for this visit. Nevertheless, it's worthwhile for the knowledge gained from visiting these sites.

The USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park consist of the Submarine itself and some other exhibits at the surrounding park. It was an eye-opening experience visiting the Submarine as every part of it is open to the visitor. More update on the Submarine visit will be posted later.

The Battleship Missouri Memorial or the "Mighty-Mo" is a retired battleship with very high historical value. It was the deck of Missouri that brought an end to World War II.

The Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor is at a distance from the other two sites but the entrance fee includes a free shuttle ride between sites. For aircraft enthusiasts, this museum is definitely a good place to visit.

More updates on my visit to these sites will be posted soon. Please stay tuned.