“Dropping of the Roses”  82nd Anniversary of the Attack on Pearl Harbor Memorial Ceremony

Hosted by the American Airpower Museum and the Long Island Air Force Association

December 7, 2023 – 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

On Thursday, December 7, 2023, American Airpower Museum hosts the annual “Dropping of the Roses” Pearl Harbor Memorial Ceremony conducted by the Long Island Air Force Association (LIAFA).  The American Airpower Museum has hosted this event each year ever since the Museum opened its doors in 2000.  December 7, 2023 is the 82nd Anniversary of the Japanese attack on the U.S. Navy Fleet based at Pearl Harbor.

The Program will begin with welcome remarks by USAF Col. (ret.) Bill Stratemeier, LIAFA.  A solemn ceremony remembering all who served at Pearl Harbor follows, including a special tribute to World War II veterans who will receive certificates from Long Island elected officials.  In keeping with the “Dropping of the Roses” tradition began by Joseph Hydrusko in 1970, the blessing of 82 American Beauty Roses (including one extra white rose for 9-11) will commemorate the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941.  Includes Color Guards from the Navy Reserves and veterans organizations.  A Chaplain will conduct a Blessing of the Roses, Taps will be played and Roses presented to our pilot, who will then taxi from and depart the Airpower Museum Flight Line in a vintage military aircraft to fly and drop the Roses over New York’s Statue of Liberty.  The public is welcome to attend our “Dropping of the Roses” Ceremony on December 7, 2023.

Admission is free if you arrive between 10:30 am and 12:00 pm.  After 12:00 p.m. $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and veterans, $10 for kids 5 to 12.  No tickets or pre-registration necessary.