Preserving Pearl Harbor’s landmarks and honoring the memory of those who gave their lives is important for future generations. Restoring the Ford Island Control Tower is a key part of that mission.
Visitors to Pearl Harbor now have a memorable way to connect with history through The Top of the Tower Tour. Opened on Memorial Day, the tour brings guests to the tower’s observation deck—accessible by an elevator donated by the Shoen family of U-Haul—and offers 360-degree views of America’s World War II aviation battlefield.
© U-Haul International, Inc.
Significant restoration progress has already been made, with roughly $7 million invested in tower repairs over the last decade. However, important work remains: replacing the tower’s windows is the final step. The project requires $800,000 to finish, and half of that amount must still be raised through public contributions. Completing this restoration will protect an irreplaceable World War II landmark and help ensure the site continues to honor veterans of the Greatest Generation.
Recognizing that not everyone can give financially, U-Haul encourages other forms of support as well. Sharing information about the restoration and donation opportunities helps the effort. Experiencing The Top of the Tower Tour in Honolulu, Hawai’i, is another meaningful way to support the tower’s preservation.
© U-Haul International, Inc.
Pearl Harbor holds special meaning for U-Haul. The company was founded in 1945 by a U.S. Navy veteran and his wife as World War II concluded, and U-Haul has been based in Arizona since 1967. The Top of the Tower Tour provides sweeping views of Pearl Harbor National Memorial and the USS Arizona Memorial, as well as Battleship Row, where several ships were damaged or sunk during the attack on December 7, 1941. The tower lobby includes a display honoring U-Haul-affiliated veterans who served in the Pacific Theater.
“Reopening the Ford Island Control Tower is another way to honor the memories and preserve the stories of the brave individuals who sacrificed their lives defending our freedom,” said Joe Shoen, chairman of U-Haul and son of founders L.S. “Sam” and Anna Mary Carty Shoen.
U-Haul continues to support veterans through recruitment and hiring preferences and works with multiple charitable organizations focused on veterans’ causes. Today the company employs more than 1,300 veterans, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to those who served.