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Coast into the Visitor Info Center at 309 N Water St., STE D to pick up an exclusive special edition WWII Heritage Trail pin!
Get a digital download of the WWII Heritage Trail brochure here.
USS Lexington
The USS Lexington, nicknamed the "Blue Ghost," was an Essex Class aircraft carrier commissioned in 1943. It served in the Pacific theater for about 21 months during World War II, earning numerous combat records. After a brief decommissioning in 1947, it was reactivated in 1955 primarily for Navy training. By the 1980s, it became clear that maintaining this World War II-era vessel was costly, leading to its replacement by the USS Forrestal as a training carrier in 1990. Corpus Christi secured the USS Lexington as a museum through community support and a bond sale, and it has been open to the public since November 14, 1992, becoming a significant attraction in the Coastal Bend area. .
Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History
Through its exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs, the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History sheds light on the experiences of naval personnel, the technological advancements of the era, and the impact of the World War II on the local community. This gateway to the past provides an immersive and engaging experience, ensuring that future generations can connect with and learn from the experiences of their predecessors. The museum also serves as a repository for historical artifacts, photographs, documents, and oral histories that provide valuable insights into the wartime era, and acts as a hub for research and scholarship, supporting historians, academics, and researchers in their quest to uncover and interpret the rich history of Corpus Christi during World War II.
Corpus Christi Seawall
The purpose of the seawall, which extends from the Corpus Christi Bay to Downtown Corpus Christi, was to act as a protective barrier from large storm surges that would flood the downtown portion of the city. Its completion in 1941 was a huge moment for the city which brought people together right before the United States would join the second World War. This seawall was later used to hold war bond rallies during World War II while celebrating the arrival of Columbus ship and watching a firework display over the Corpus Christi Bay. By fortifying the Corpus Christi shoreline, the Seawall not only provided physical protection but also symbolized the city's unwavering commitment to supporting the war effort.
Chaparral Street and Artesian Park
The Nimitz Day Parade, which was held all over Texas, honored the heroic war efforts of Admiral Nimitz. In 1946, Corpus Christi held the parade, and its route traveled through Chaparral Street and passed through Artesian Park, where spectators lined the streets, eagerly awaiting the procession of marching bands, military units, and colorful floats with patriotic decorations. Artesian Park, known for its lush greenery and beautiful atmosphere, provided an aesthetic backdrop for the parade, and a place for families to gather, enjoy picnics, and bask in the arm sunshine while enjoying the parade. The Nimitz Day Parade of 1946 remains etched in the memories of Corpus Christi residents as a testament to their unwavering support and gratitude for their hometown hero.
Sherrill Veteran’s Memorial Park
Warren Joseph Sherril, a young high school student in 1938, enlisted in the Navy at the age of 19 as the threat of war loomed, and served as the Chaplin Assistant while stationed on the USS Arizona at Pearl Harbor. Here, he lost his life, becoming the first casualty from the Corpus Christi area during World War II. Sherril Veterans Memorial Park in Nueces County, named after Warren Sherril, pays tribute to those who served in World War II and features a 600-pound bronze plaque with the names of 399 local residents who made the ultimate sacrifice. The park also hosts a monument honoring the 82 men from Corpus Christi who survived the Pearl Harbor bombing, a pivotal event that thrust the U.S. into World War II. This memorial symbolizes their strength and sacrifices, ensuring their memory endures.
South Texas Aviator Memorial
The South Texas Aviator Memorial in Corpus Christi pays tribute to naval aviation community members through the collective efforts of numerous supporters who raised $100,000 for its creation. At the core of the memorial, a seven-foot bronze statue depicts a naval aviator standing tall, holding a helmet, symbolizing their courage and dedication. The statue rests on a sturdy granite pedestal, reflecting the strength of these aviators. Surrounding the statue is a brick walkway with pavers bearing the names and remembrances of fallen and serving heroes, creating a profound appreciation for their sacrifices. Located in Ropes Park, this memorial honors naval aviation history and serves as a timeless reminder of the bravery and valor of these aviators for generations to come.
