USS San Diego Memorial — Attraction in San Diego

USS San Diego Memorial Located in the corner of N Harbor Dr. and Tuna Wharf St. on the waterfront of downtown San Diego, this piece of public art honors the distinguished service of the cruiser USS San Diego and its crew during World War II. The five-piece walls are polished granite and composite terra cotta, and the floor contains a terrazzo map of the Pacific theatre. The ship’s travels are marked with inlaid brass strips in the floor, and inlaid stars mark the places of battles and engagements, from Guadalcanal to Tokyo Bay. The 18 brass stars represent the number of battle stars earned by the vessel and its crew. A life-size bronze statue, representing the rest of the crew of the ship, gazes out over the Pacific. Anti-Aircraft light cruiser USS San Diego (CL-53) was commissioned on 10 January 1942, and serviced mainly in the WWII Pacific theatre and involved in many sea battles. After the Japanese surrendered, San Diego continued to support the post-war effort as part of Operation Magic Carpet that brought thousands of American troops home. San Diego was decommissioned and placed in the Pacific Reserve Fleet in November 1946. More than ten years later, the mighty ship was struck from the Navy list and was scrapped in Seattle in 1960. San Diego received 15 battle stars for her exceptional World...

We were in San Diego for holidays. I found out that the waterfront is such a beautiful place for my morning run. While on the run, I passed by these beautiful memorials. I stopped at each of them to learn more. It was an overwhelming experience.

Reading every word it said about the brave men and their families, the sacrifices made for their country, the common ideals they believed in and fought for. I'm a husband and a parent, and it was very emotional moment for me even to interpret the meaning of words written here. I was in tears.

Kudos to those who planned and built these amazing memorials for future generations to learn about this important piece of...

THANK YOU USS SAN DIEGO! This memorial summarizes the massive military culture that is part of this city. It’s a staple within the Midway area and is wonderful tribute to the troops who have served the US. I’m always appreciative of these brave souls who continue to risk their lives and fight for liberties not found elsewhere. The memorial is part of San Diego’s history so I would definitely check it out if you’re visiting the Midway museum or even if you’re taking a walk.

The best part: It’s FREE.

Tip: Please don’t be that person taking selfies in front of this memorial, be...