Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial: Memorial Day Ceremony
Honoring the bravery and sacrifice of
Cpl. Patrick “Bob” Gallagher.
Irish immigrant Cpl. Gallagher earned the Navy Cross during the Vietnam War for heroically shielding his fellow Marines from a live grenade. Today, his uncommon valor is immortalized by the U.S. Navy through the naming of the destroyer USS Patrick Gallagher (DOG 127), ensuring his spirit continues to protect the nation he adopted.
Born in Ballyhaunis, County Mayo, Ireland, Bob Gallagher crossed an ocean, chose to serve the United States, and gave his life to save the men standing beside him. He was 23 years old. He was not yet an American citizen. He served anyway.
The annual ceremony at Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial pays tribute to all veterans, former Prisoners of War, and those still listed as Missing in Action, whose ultimate sacrifice reminds us of the true cost of freedom. Through remembrance and education, we ensure that the legacy of our fallen service members lives on. They invite veterans, families, community members, and all who wish to pay their respects to attend this solemn and meaningful ceremony.
