Our hearts are still overflowing with gratitude as we reflect on this year’s Memorial Day ceremony at Mt. Soledad. What an extraordinary gathering it was, approximately 1,500 members of our San Diego community came together to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. The sight of families, veterans, local authorities, military personnel, and community members standing shoulder to shoulder was nothing short of moving, demonstrating the deep respect and unwavering commitment our San Diego community holds for our fallen heroes and their families.
We were deeply honored to welcome Gold Star families to our ceremony, including the families affected by the tragic USS Cole attack. Their presence served as a powerful reminder of the real cost of freedom and the ongoing impact of loss on military families. This year held special significance as we honored Seamen Lakiba Nicole Palmer, a San Diego native who served aboard the USS Cole, along with the 16 other sailors who paid the ultimate sacrifice in that horrific attack. We presented plaques in honor of Lakiba’s service and in memory of all 17 sailors who gave their lives. Our commitment to honoring these brave sailors and supporting their families remains unwavering, their sacrifice will forever be etched in our hearts and memories. Lakiba’s story and the stories of her 16 shipmates resonate deeply within our local community, reminding us that the heroes we honor are not distant figures, but our neighbors, our daughters and sons, our own.
The ceremony was elevated by powerful testimonies from distinguished speakers who brought the USS Cole story to life. Captain Chris Peterschmidt, USN (Ret.), who served as Executive Officer aboard the USS Cole at the time of the attack, delivered a moving and detailed recount of that fateful day. His firsthand account of what the crew endured while fighting to save their ship left the entire crowd captivated and deeply moved by the heroism displayed in those critical moments.
Command Master Chief (Ret.) James Parlier, who served as Command Master Chief of the USS Cole during the attack, also shared his powerful testimony. CMDCM Parlier’s emotional recount of the attack and its aftermath was profoundly moving, there was not a dry eye among the 1,200 people gathered. His words brought home the reality of loss, courage, and the bonds forged in the face of tragedy.
Our keynote speaker, Rear Admiral Justin A. Kubu, who currently commands the Navy’s Unmanned Task Force and also served aboard the USS Cole (though not at the time of the attack), delivered an insightful and moving speech on service and sacrifice. His connection to the ship and his perspective on naval service provided a bridge between past sacrifice and future commitment, inspiring all in attendance. The backbone of our ceremony continues to be our incredible docents and volunteers. Their unwavering dedication throughout the year ensures that these sacred gatherings can take place, preserving the tradition of remembrance for future generations. Without their selfless service, events like these would not be possible. We are also deeply grateful to our generous sponsors, including Kaiser Permanente, USS Midway Museum, and all our wonderful community partners who make this ceremony possible through their continued support.
Standing together on Mt. Soledad, surrounded by the families of those who gave everything, we were reminded of our collective purpose: to remember, to honor, and to never forget.
San Diego, you truly showed up for our heroes. Your presence demonstrated that our community will always stand with our military families, not just on Memorial Day, but throughout the year. The sight of 1,200 people gathered in solemn remembrance speaks to the character of our city and the values we share. The presence of Gold Star families, those who have experienced the deepest loss, strengthens our resolve to ensure their loved ones’ sacrifices are never forgotten.
As we move forward from this meaningful ceremony, we carry with us the stories, the faces, and the memories shared. The bonds formed and strengthened on Mt. Soledad reminds us that honoring our fallen is not a once-a-year obligation, but a continuous commitment to those who serve and the families who support them. Thank you to everyone who made this ceremony possible, from our dedicated volunteers to every community member who took time to honor our heroes. Your participation ensures that the legacy of service and sacrifice continues to inspire future generations.
Until we gather again next year, we hold these memories close and continue to honor those who cannot be with us. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten, and neither will the community that stands united in their memory.
The Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial stands as a place of honor for veterans like Seaman Palmer. We invite you to visit the memorial and pay tribute to her and the thousands of other brave men and women who have served our country.
