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Punchbowl National Cemetery

Punchbowl National Cemetery

Punchbowl National Cemetery, Oahu

The Punchbowl National Cemetery of the Pacific, located on Oahu, Hawaii, was built in 1948 to serve as a resting place for soldiers of the American Armed Forces who lost their lives during World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.

The 116-acre cemetery is situated in an extinct volcano, named Pouwaina, which means “consecrated hill” or “hill of sacrifice” in the Hawaiian language. In the past, Punchbowl was the site of “alii” (royal) burials.


Punchbowl National Cemetery Overview

  • Final resting place of more than 25,000 American Armed Forces soldiers who lost their lives in three wars - World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War
  • Punchbowl Cemetery was built in 1948
  • 776 casualties from the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor were among the first to be buried here
  • American Legion offers walking tours Monday thru Friday, call 808-946-6383 for more information


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Reviews and Comments:
 
My daughter chose this site for her USAF Captain ceremony and I was fortunate enough to attend. It was so beautiful and the memorial is very special.
Darryl Carey, Sat Dec 14, 2019
 
This absolutely beautiful.
Kim Righetti, Sat Aug 25, 2018
 
Been there several times. Most moving was over a Memorial Day in the 80's. All the children made leis for every grave. It was so beautiful and aromatic. The story of the Pacific battles during WWII is heart rendering.
robert dennis, Wed Feb 26, 2014
 
This is a must see for everyone, especially Veterans who have a chance to visit Hawaii.
Jon Clifton, Fri Apr 12, 2013
 
Truly a special place, just like Pearl
Dennis, Sun May 13, 2012