The U.S. Army Museum of Hawaii in Waikīkī was once a battery built to protect the state from invading forces. Today, it is home to stories of military past, including exhibits of the Vietnam War, Korean War, World War II and more. But more than that, the museum is a great place for senior veterans to volunteer — a majority of the volunteers are retired veterans.
“Veterans are really great at talking to people,” said Ian Frazier, historian and museum specialist. “A lot of our visitors hail from all over the world . This is the only contact they have with veterans from WWII, Korean… Vietnam [wars].”
Museum staff are usually selective about who they have as volunteers because they represent our country and the U.S. Army. But Ian said the one thing that shines about veteran volunteers is the way they communicate.
The museum is always looking for additional volunteers, and you don’t have to be a veteran to be considered.
The museum, operated by the U.S. Army Garrison-Hawaii, averages 400 visitors per day from all over the world. The museum receives funding through the U.S. Army and the Hawaii Army Museum Society. Most of the staff are volunteers.
Admission to the museum is free. However, donations are always welcome. The museum also offers audio tours for a small fee of $5 or $2.50 for society members. You may also view some military exhibits on the museum’s website.
U.S. ARMY MUSEUM of HAWAII
2161 Kalia Road, Honolulu HI 96815
Hours of operation:
Tuesday – Saturday, 9 am – 4:15 pm
Sunday, Monday and all federal holidays — CLOSED
808-438-2821 | www.tinyurl.com/ArmyMuseumHI
