Honoring Heroes: Memorial Day Ceremony for USS Cole Sailors
Gather for the Memorial Day Ceremony for USS Cole Sailors at the Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial, where San Diego will pay tribute to the 17 sailors who lost their lives in the USS Cole attack, including local hero Seaman Lakiba Nicole Palmer.
A Ceremony of Reflection and Tribute
The annual Memorial Day ceremony invites the public to the Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial in La Jolla. Admission is free, making this a community-wide opportunity to come together and remember.
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the USS Cole tragedy, and as Neil O’Connell, Executive Director of the Mt. Soledad Memorial Association, said, “Memorial Day is a sacred day of remembrance, a time to honor those who gave everything for our freedom.
These 17 heroes represent the thousands of individuals we honor on Memorial Day. Their sacrifice, and the sacrifices of all who have died in service, will always be remembered.”
Ceremony Highlights
- Plaque Dedication: Honoring Seaman Lakiba Nicole Palmer and her 16 fellow sailors
- Special Guests: Hear reflections from former Command Master Chief James Parlier, CMDMC U.S. Navy (Ret), and Executive Officer Chris Peterschmidt, Capt, U.S. Navy (Ret)
- Names of the Fallen: All 17 sailors’ names will be read aloud in tribute
- Music and Honor Guard: The Marine Band San Diego and a USMC Honor Guard will perform
- Gold Star Families and Survivors: Family members of the fallen and survivors of the USS Cole attack are expected to attend
Evening Recognition
Later in the day, the San Diego Padres will honor the USS Cole heroes during their opening ceremonies, joined by Gold Star families and members of the Mt. Soledad Memorial Association team.
See you there!
As San Diego gathers for the Memorial Day Ceremony for USS Cole Sailors, let’s honor their legacy and the memory of all those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation.
📅 Monday, May 26, 2025 | 11 AM–12:30 PM
📍 6905 La Jolla Scenic Dr. S., La Jolla
🎟️Free Admission
ℹ️ More info here
See you there, San Diego!
