Submarine Memorial Chapel

The Submarine Memorial Chapel is a military building at Pearl Harbor dedicated to honoring submarine crews and located within a military base. It features fourteen stained glass windows, with submarines depicted in the lower section of each pane representing those who served during World War II.

The chapel was built in 1943 as the first structure at Pearl Harbor created specifically for religious worship, initiated by a Navy chaplain. The stained glass windows were added in 1959 through a donation from a major shipbuilding company.

The chapel serves as a gathering place where visitors and military families honor the memory of submarine crews who gave their lives. The monthly bell-tolling ceremonies and the reading of lost submarine names create a space for quiet reflection on sacrifice.

The chapel is located on military grounds and requires access procedures typical of military installations, so plan accordingly before your visit. Bring comfortable walking shoes and allow time to view the windows and interior details at a relaxed pace.

One of the windows shows submarines from all time periods, not just World War II, which sets this chapel apart from typical war memorials. This broader perspective helps visitors understand the longer story of submarine service beyond a single conflict.

Location: Hawaii

GPS coordinates: 21.35528,-157.94194

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:02