The City of La Quinta is unveiling the "Gold Star Family Monument" on Saturday, August 26, in memory of Marine Cpl. Hunter Lopez and Army Staff Sgt. James Perez.
"Join us in honoring Marine Cpl. Hunter Lopez, his fellow service members who lost their lives in the August 2021 attack at the Kabul airport in Afghanistan, and U.S. Army Staff Sgt. James Perez as the City unveils the Gold Star Family Monument," the City shared on social media. "The monument was designed and erected in memory of the nation's heroes who gave their lives while serving their country and their families."
In honor of Marine Cpl. Hunter Lopez, Army Staff Sgt. James Perez, and the service members who lost their lives at the Kabul airport in Afghanistan in August 2021, the City of La Quinta is unveiling the "Gold Star Family Monument". The memorial unveiling, as well as a light saber vigil for Lopez, will take place at the Civic Center Campus on Saturday.
On August 26, 2021, a suicide bomber struck outside a primary entrance at Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport, claiming the life of 22-year-old Lopez and 12 other U.S. service members. This tragic incident occurred during the evacuation of American and Afghan allies as the United States prepared to conclude its presence in Afghanistan by August 31 of that same year. Attributed to the ISIS-K terrorist network, the Pentagon's investigation identified both a suicide bomber and several armed assailants as the perpetrators. The attack resulted in the loss of at least 169 civilian lives.
"That day, under the blazing sun, Corporal Lopez and his fellow Marines worked tirelessly to evacuate the thousands of women, children, and families who came to the airport desperately seeking safety, protection, and refuge," said Congressman Raul Ruiz. "Corporal Lopez gave his life to save the lives of others. I can't think of anything more noble than that. Corporal Lopez saved two lives at the Kabul airport and because of him, two children now have a future and the promise of a new life."
Lopez grew up in the Coachella Valley and completed his education at La Quinta High School. Serving in the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines, he dedicated four years to the Marine Corps and aspired to transition to the sheriff's department following his military service.
According to Desert Sun, Perez was raised in La Quinta. He completed his studies at La Quinta High School before joining the Army in 2009. At the age of 28, he served as a weapons squad leader within the U.S. Army Ranger's 3rd Battalion, 75th Regiment. Tragically, Perez lost his life on August 5, 2017, during a training exercise. His service record included participation in six combat missions, recognition with an Army Commendation Medal, and a Purple Heart for injuries sustained in Afghanistan.