As the strategic interests in the Pacific islands grew around the world, the Commander of the Pacific Fleet visited Hawaii in 1868 on behalf of American interests. The Navy was trying to find new bases for the expansion of its fleet at the time and, in 1891, President Harrison encouraged Congress to develop and improve Pearl Harbor as a naval station. This proposal passed Congress and in 1908 the Pearl Harbor Navy Yard, Territory of Hawaii, was established.

The shipyard defended the nation through every war and conflict since its creation, including its own destruction and rebuilding after Pearl Harbor was bombed on December 7, 1941 by the Imperial Japanese Navy. It continues to support the US Navy in the current conflicts.