~A TRIBUTE TO THE PAST - A LEGACY FOR THE FUTURE~
    The United States Marine Corps has been a valuable neighbor of San Clemente since the early 1940's when the Marine Base was established and dedicated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. This community has seen Marines pass through our town during World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam War, and the Gulf War. They have been our neighbors, sons, daughters, husbands, wives and community leaders. As a community, we have honored them with barbecues and parades, but we have not honored them with a permanent reminder of our respect and appreciation for them.

     The Board of The Heritage of San Clemente Foundation, a non-profit organization, has decided that it is appropriate to honor them in a manner that will be a permanent reminder that their heroism is an important part of San Clemente’s heritage. Therefore we launched a private fund raising drive to erect a Marine Corps Monument in San Clemente. The community was asked what type of statue would be appropriate and they have chosen the Dress Blue Uniform as the one that is most symbolic of The United States Marine Corps. It is a life-sized bronze statue placed in the newly created Park Semper Fi located in the Pier Bowl where residents and visitors alike can view it. The Monument was dedicated on Saturday, November 12, 2005 at noon in commemoration with the Marine Corps 230th Birthday.

     The Monument will, for all time, attest to the Corp’s honor, courage and commitment in service to our nation. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for us to come together to honor the Marines, to confirm our heritage, to share with our community, and with each other, and to leave a lasting and glorious legacy for the future.

     Won’t you be a part of this continuing fund raising by contributing to this effort. We are establishing an endowment to maintain Park Semper Fi and the Monument. Your contribution is tax deductible and will be very much appreciated.

G. Wayne Eggleston, Executive Director
The Heritage of San Clemente Foundation
City Council Member

Dedicated on November 12, 2005
click here for the pics!