Events
moments marking
the journey
Bringing History to Life
Since its earliest days, the South Pacific WWII Museum has been shaped not just by plans and designs, but by moments—events that bring people together, mark progress, and keep Santo’s wartime story alive in the present.
From commemorations to exhibitions and project milestones, these gatherings have connected the local community, international visitors, and supporters from across the region. Each one reflects a different part of the Museum’s journey—where we’ve been, what we’re building, and why it matters.
Development Office Opening
The opening of the Museum Project Development Office in Luganville marked a significant step forward for the Museum. For the first time, the project had a physical presence at Unity Park—the future home of the Museum itself.
The day began with a memorial service at the Euart site, honouring those lost in the sinking of the SS President Coolidge, before moving to the official opening attended by community leaders, government representatives, and supporters.
It was a moment that signalled progress—not just in planning, but on the ground. More on the opening can be found here.
Coolidge Exhibition
The Coolidge Exhibition stands as one of the defining achievements of the Museum to date.
Featuring the world’s largest collection of artefacts from the SS President Coolidge—including the ship’s bell and whistle—the exhibition brings the story of the liner to life in a way few places in the world can.
Originally developed to mark a major milestone in the Museum’s journey, the exhibition quickly proved its significance, becoming a permanent display in Luganville. Its creation required careful planning, coordination, and the support of key partners, including the Vanuatu Tourism Office.
More than a collection of objects, the exhibition represents something larger. It demonstrates that even a small museum in the South Pacific can deliver an experience of international standard—one that honours the past while setting the benchmark for what is still to come.
More on the Coolidge exhibition can be found here.
Coolidge Commemoration
Each year, the commemoration of the SS President Coolidge brings together locals, visitors, and descendants to remember one of the most significant wartime events to occur in Vanuatu.
Held at sites connected to the sinking, the service honours those who lost their lives while recognising the extraordinary survival story that followed.
It is a moment of reflection, respect, and connection—linking past and present in a way that remains deeply meaningful to the Santo community.
Coverage of our special Coolidge 80th commemoration can be found here.
USS Strong Memorial Dedication
In July 2024, the South Pacific World War II Museum was honoured to host a special commemoration marking the loss of the USS Strong (DD-467), a Fletcher-class destroyer sunk during the Solomon Islands campaign on 5 July 1943. The ceremony brought together local residents, expatriates, museum supporters and via an internet livestream, members of the USS Strong families to remember the officers and sailors who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Presided over by Father Kami Huri of the Anglican Archdiocese of Vanuatu and New Caledonia, the service was one of quiet dignity and reflection, with Museum Deputy Chairman William Widup representing the museum and Tammi Johnson speaking on behalf of the Strong families.
A highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of a permanent USS Strong memorial at the museum. Entrusted to the South Pacific World War II Museum by the ship’s families, the memorial represents far more than a historical display.
The commemorative plaque now provides visitors with a lasting place to reflect on the courage, sacrifice and service of the Strong‘s crew, ensuring their story continues to be shared with future generations.
