Episode 68 Know Before You Go: Pearl Harbor with Tanya Wheeless

Tanya Wheeless is the President & CEO of the U.S.S. Arizona Legacy Foundation, a nonprofit established to honor and expand the memory of the U.S.S. Arizona battleship, one of the 19 U.S. Navy ships attacked at Pearl Harbor. The U.S.S. Arizona carried half of those who died during the surprise attack on Oahu in 1941, and now serves as a memorial for the 1,777 lives lost. With over 20 years of leadership experience in diverse fields, Tanya’s love of country has always been strong as she herself comes from a family of veterans. Both of her grandfathers and two of her great-uncles served in World War II, one giving his life at the Battle of Okinawa, earning a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart. Her husband also graduated from the United States Air Force Academy and flew F-16s.

In today’s episode, Tanya paints a detailed human story of the attack, revealing details that may surprise you. She also shares her expertise on making the most of a visit to Pearl Harbor beyond visiting the memorial, including her favorite dive bar where navy sailors used to frequent. Tanya and Melissa explore the significance of traveling to reverent, historic sites around the world and why it’s important for moving society forward. And as an avid traveler who’s visited six of the world’s natural wonders, Tanya shares some of her favorite travel memories, including a visit to King Tut’s Tomb in Egypt and when she saw the Northern Lights in Norway. Plus – don’t miss Melissa’s take on the latest trends in dark tourism, a phenomenon where travelers seek out destinations associated with tragedy. 

Lightning Round with Tanya:

• What part of the USS Arizona (SSN-803) are you most excited to see? We will bring the spirit and heritage of Arizona onto the boat through art, photography, millwork and more. As an Arizona native, I can’t wait to see how it transforms the sub. 
• What’s a fact that most people don’t know about submarines? Here’s two: they make their own oxygen from sea water and they can launch Tomahawk missiles while fully submerged. 
• What’s been a memorable moment in your career? I’ve been fortunate to have many in sports and government, but being with the last living survivor of the U.S.S. Arizona battleship, Lou Conter, on his 102nd birthday and listening to him reminisce about his incredible life tops the list. 
• What other historical sites are on your wish list to visit? Normandy and the Holy Land. 
• Favorite spot in Arizona? Looking up at the red rocks in Boynton Canyon Sedona after a luxurious massage at Mii amo Spa. 
• Where are you hoping to travel next? Greece and Iceland.