Emails Show FBI Director Patel Took a 'VIP Snorkel' at the USS Arizona, a Military Grave Site

The Associated Press reported on May 15 that government emails showed FBI Director Kash Patel took what Navy correspondence called a "VIP snorkel" around the wreck of the USS Arizona at Pearl Harbor during an official Hawaii trip in August 2025. The excursion did not appear on his public schedule. The Arizona is the resting place of more than 1,100 sailors and Marines killed in the 1941 attack and is treated as a military cemetery. The Navy said hosting distinguished visitors in that manner was standard practice; the FBI called it "a historical tour to honor our heroes who died on the USS Arizona — not a party."

The report added to questions about whether Patel has used the directorship for personal benefit, following earlier scrutiny of his use of FBI aircraft and his attendance at sporting events. The director's travel is paid for by taxpayers on the premise that it is official, and undisclosed personal activity folded into official trips is the kind of item inspectors general typically examine.

No inspector general finding or disciplinary action related to the trip had been reported. Patel has separately said he is suing over reporting about his conduct.