Honoring Veterans of the Korean War: Remembering the “Forgotten War”
Saturday, November 9, 2024, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial, 6905 La Jolla Scenic Drive South, La Jolla, CA 92037
Free Event • Open to the Public
Join us at the Soledad Memorial on November 9, 2024, as we come together to honor our nation’s heroes and pay tribute to the courage and sacrifices of our veterans. This year’s Veterans Day event will be a heartfelt celebration of service, commitment, and community as we honor the brave men and women who served in the Korean War, often referred to as the “Forgotten War.”.
The ceremony begins at 11:00 AM, featuring an inspiring keynote address from Major General Mark MacCarley, U.S. Army Reserve (Ret.), whose years of dedicated service and leadership have left a lasting impact on our military and our nation. We’re also thrilled to announce that the event will be emceed by none other than Fox 5 Meteorologist Brad Wills, adding a familiar face and voice to the day’s proceedings.
The Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial stands as a testament to the resilience and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans. Founded in 1952 during the Korean War, the memorial was initially chartered with a mission to honor veterans of WWII and the Korean War. Today, nearly 6,600 black granite plaques cover the site, each telling the story of a life lived in service to our country.
Towering over this sacred ground is the iconic 29-foot cross, dedicated in 1954, which has come to symbolize the enduring spirit of those who have fought for our freedoms. Seventy years later, the Mt. Soledad Memorial Association remains steadfast in its mission, fully funded by private donations, to preserve and honor the memories of these heroes.
On Saturday, November 9, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, the Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial will host a ceremony dedicated to honoring Korean War veterans, their families, and those who remain missing in action. This free event is open to the public, and all are welcome to join in paying tribute to the veterans of a war that shaped the history of the United States and the world.
While often overshadowed by other conflicts, the Korean War was a pivotal moment in U.S. and global history. It solidified the United States’ role in protecting democracy around the world, serving as a crucial defense against the spread of communism in Asia. The war also prompted the creation of the Mt. Soledad Memorial, an enduring reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of those who served.
| Event Information When: Saturday, November 9, 2024 Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM Where: Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial, 6905 La Jolla Scenic Drive South, La Jolla, CA 92037 Cost: Free event, open to the public |
Parking and Shuttle Services: Free parking is available at Mt. Soledad Presbyterian Church and the French American School. Shuttle services will be provided to and from the event.
As we approach the 70th anniversary of the Mt. Soledad Memorial’s creation, we remain committed to the principles on which it was founded: to honor those who have served and to preserve the memories of their sacrifices. This event is not only a tribute to the veterans of the Korean War but also a reminder of the enduring mission to ensure their stories are never forgotten.
We invite everyone to join us in honoring our Korean War veterans at this special event. Whether you have a personal connection to a veteran or simply wish to pay your respects, your presence will help to show these heroes, and their families, that their sacrifices are deeply appreciated.
