U.S Naval War College Museum New Exhibition
“This is No Drill” features artifacts related to the events at Pearl Harbor including a metal fragment of USS Arizona, and a diorama by Robert D. Bracci titled, “Last Liberty,” which depicts a poignant scene on the evening of 6 December 1941, as many of Arizona’s crew prepare to go ashore for what will turn out to be their final evening of rest and relaxation. Also on display is a Royal Navy Volunteer Reserve uniform worn by American Alex Cherry, and models of Japanese naval aircraft used in World War II.
On a Sunday morning in 1941, an “urgent” radiogram went out to all U.S. Navy ships near Hawaii: “AIRRAID ON PEARL HARBOR X THIS IS NO DRILL.” Rear Admiral Husband E. Kimmel, then-Commander in Chief of the Pacific Fleet (CINCPAC), sent the message on 7 December 1941, moments after Japanese aircraft began dropping bombs on the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor. Less than two hours later, more than 2,400 people had lost their lives and many more were wounded in the attack that pushed the United States into World War II. This is No Drill features artifacts related to the events at Pearl Harbor including a metal fragment of USS Arizona, and a diorama by Robert D. Bracci entitled, “Last Liberty,” which depicts a poignant scene on the evening of 6 December 1941, as many of Arizona’s crew prepare to go ashore for what will turn out to be their final evening of rest and relaxation. Also on display is a Royal Navy Volunteer Reserve uniform worn by American Alex Cherry, and models of Japanese naval aircraft used in World War II.
The Museum is open to the public 10 A.M. to 4:30 P.M., Mondays -Fridays throughout the year, and noon to 4:30 P.M. on weekends during June-September. It is closed on holidays. Reservations are required 7 business days prior to your visit. For reservations please call (401) 841-4052 or e-mail [email protected].