Tropic Lightning Museum, Oahu

Opened in 1984, this small military museum is dedicated to the 25th Infantry Division, also known as the Tropic Lightning Division. Since 1908, the division has occupied Schofield Barracks, one of the American military forts near Oahu's Pearl Harbor that was attacked by the Japanese on December 7, 1941.

U.S. history buffs can revisit this story and many others involving the 25th Infantry Division at the Tropic Lightning Museum, a place dedicated to preserving the memory of fallen soldiers and helping veterans reconnect.

Curators of the Tropic Lightning Museum have collected artifacts and related memorabilia that tell the infantry's history from 1941 to the present. Here you'll find technical manuals, personal accounts, photographs, models, old uniforms, weaponry, communication devices and more.

The museum also displays more recently acquired items, such as a Mauser pistol given by the Iraqi people to Col. Walter Piatt and the 3rd Brigade, 25th Infantry Division in appreciation for his services and partnership. Another exhibit recounts the early “pioneering days” at Schofield Barracks, when soldiers got by without running water or road access.

The museum attracts between 10,000 and 12,000 visitors per year, including many veterans themselves who come to reflect on their military experiences. Admission is FREE for all visitors. Guided group tours are available by reservation by calling (808) 655-0438.

Hours:
Tuesday to Saturday: 10 am – 4 pm
Closed on Sundays, Mondays and all federal holidays

Admission:
Free admission to military and civilian visitors

Tropic Lightning Museum Overview

Museum is dedicated to the 25th Infantry Division, also known as the Tropic Lightning Division
Features artifacts and related memorabilia that tell the infantry's history from 1941 to the present