Find Hotels Near USS Oklahoma Anchor Memorial Oklahoma City

The USS Oklahoma Anchor Memorial in Oklahoma City stands as a powerful and permanent display of respect and remembrance for the sailors who served aboard the USS Oklahoma during World War II. The memorial is located in downtown Oklahoma City, on the south side of the State Capitol grounds, overlooking beautiful Myriad Botanical Gardens and situated between the Civic Center Music Hall and the Ronald J. Norick Downtown Library. It is one of many prominent monuments to commemorate those who have served in America’s military.

The memorial features a 24-foot black steel anchor from the USS Oklahoma, which was sunk by Japanese forces during the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. The anchor was recovered from its resting place of more than 50 years on December 7th, 2007 — exactly 66 years after it disappeared beneath the waters off Pearl Harbor — and has since been restored to honor its legacy. The memorial also includes a granite plaque dedicated to all those who perished aboard the ship that fateful day.

The USS Oklahoma Anchor Memorial is made up of several elements, including an arched entrance gate with a plaque declaring “USS Oklahoma 1941-2001 - 58 Sailors” at its center; a 20-by-20 foot flagstone terrace; flagpoles flying symbols of each branch of service; benches set into granite walls along each side; and an American flag atop an 80-foot tall white steel mast. At night, lights illuminate both sides of the memorial, allowing easy viewing from either direction. A variety of trees surround it — including crape myrtles, red maples, Chinese elms and Chinese pistachios — creating a peaceful environment for visitors to reflect on their personal memories or honor those who have gone before them.

The USS Oklahoma Anchor Memorial serves as a place for visitors to pay homage to those fallen soldiers whose lives were taken too soon during World War II. Although time has passed since then, this monument still serves as a reminder that we must never forget those who sacrificed so much for our freedom. For those who visit or pass by this sacred site, they will be reminded that freedom isn't free — but rather paid for with courage, strength and sacrifice beyond measure.