In a stirring tribute to the heroes of World War II, the Bob & Dolores Hope Foundation and the Gary Sinise Foundation are joining forces with the Battleship Missouri Memorial and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum to host the 80th Commemoration of the End of World War II, taking place August 30 through September 2 in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.

The commemoration opens with a free public concert by Gary Sinise & the Lt. Dan Band on Saturday, August 30, held on the grounds of the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. Known for uplifting service members around the globe, the band has performed nearly 600 shows and continues the legacy of Bob Hope’s wartime entertainment.

“It’s a true privilege to bring the Lt. Dan Band to Hawaii to honor, salute, and say thank you to these incredible men and women,” said Gary Sinise. “We owe them so much.”

The official commemoration ceremony will take place on September 2, adjacent to the deck of the Battleship Missouri, where the Instrument of Surrender was signed in 1945. Eight surviving USS Missouri veterans will be honored during this solemn event, marking what may be the final opportunity to gather living WWII veterans in tribute.

Linda Hope, Chair of the Bob & Dolores Hope Foundation, emphasized the importance of remembering both the military personnel and the civilians who contributed to victory:

“We are proud to salute the service and honor the hope of our Greatest Generation.”

The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum and Battleship Missouri Memorial will host a variety of public events throughout the four-day commemoration. Visitors can explore bullet-scarred hangars, legendary aircraft, and the very deck where WWII came to an end.

For event details and participation information, visit the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum or USS Missouri Memorial websites.

Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum

Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum (PHAM) is more than a collection of aircraft—it’s a living tribute to courage, innovation, and the enduring power of history. As a proud Smithsonian Affiliate and one of Travel & Leisure Magazine’s top-rated aviation museums, PHAM stands on the hallowed grounds of Historic Ford Island, the epicenter of the December 7, 1941 attack.

Visitors are invited to step into the past as they explore hangars still marked by bullet holes, encounter iconic aircraft like the Japanese Zero and the haunting B-17 Swamp Ghost, and hear the gripping stories of the aviators who shaped the course of World War II.

But PHAM doesn’t just preserve history—it propels it forward. Through dynamic youth programs, scholarships, and workforce development initiatives, the museum inspires future generations to take flight. From PHAMily Fun Day to immersive STEM experiences and flight simulators, it offers hands-on learning for all ages.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, PHAM relies on the generosity of donors, volunteers, and members to fulfill its mission: to safeguard America’s WWII aviation battlefield and ignite a passion for education and remembrance. Plan your visit, support the cause, or learn more at PearlHarborAviationMuseum.org.

Battleship Missouri Memorial

Since opening its decks to the public in January 1999, the Battleship Missouri Memorial has welcomed over 10 million visitors from around the globe, offering a compelling journey through one of America’s most iconic naval legacies. Moored just a ship’s length from the USS Arizona Memorial, the “Mighty Mo” completes a powerful historical arc—from the tragic beginning of World War II at Pearl Harbor to its triumphant conclusion with Japan’s surrender aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay on September 2, 1945.

Spanning five decades of service across three major conflicts—World War II, the Korean War, and Operation Desert Storm—the USS Missouri’s storied career came to a close with her decommissioning and donation to the USS Missouri Memorial Association, Inc., a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. Today, the Association preserves and operates the ship as a living monument, supported by the generosity of visitors, members, grants, and donors.

Open daily to the public, the Battleship Missouri Memorial invites guests to walk the decks where history was made. For reservations or more information, call (808) 455-1600 or visit USSMissouri.org.

Bob & Dolores Hope Foundation

The Bob & Dolores Hope Foundation (BobHope.org) is dedicated to uplifting those in need and honoring those who have served our nation. Through its support of charitable organizations, the Foundation brings “HOPE” to military families, veterans, and communities across America. It also works to preserve the enduring legacy of Bob Hope—celebrated entertainer, humanitarian, patriot, and tireless advocate for the armed forces—ensuring that his spirit of generosity and service continues to inspire future generations.

Gary Sinise Foundation

Founded by acclaimed actor and humanitarian Gary Sinise, the Gary Sinise Foundation is a powerful force for honoring and supporting America’s defenders. Known for his iconic roles in CSI:NY, Apollo 13, and Forrest Gump—where he portrayed Lt. Dan Taylor, a wounded Vietnam veteran—Sinise has long been a passionate advocate for military personnel, veterans, and first responders.

Following the events of 9/11, Sinise expanded his outreach through handshake tours and performances with the Lt. Dan Band, bringing comfort and gratitude to service members worldwide. In 2011, he formalized these efforts by launching the Gary Sinise Foundation.

Today, the Foundation builds specially adapted smart homes for severely wounded heroes, supports Gold Star families, equips and trains first responders, and promotes mental wellness among those who serve. Through its programs, the Foundation ensures that the sacrifices of our nation’s defenders are never forgotten and that their legacy continues to inspire.

To learn more or support their mission, visit garysinisefoundation.org.