WE HAVE A VICTORY! The San Diego Mt. Soledad Cross will remain “as it is, where it is”! After participating in collaborative efforts for over 11 years on the Mt. Soledad Veteran’s Memorial landmark with many of you, and after thousands of hours fighting this battle, the fruits of our labor will benefit many generations. San Diegans and visitors are thrilled to have the Mt. Soledad Cross remain as a proper memorial for veterans of our military.
On Friday, July 17, 2015, title to the Mt. Soledad National Veterans War Memorial was transferred from the United States Department of Defense to the Mt. Soledad Memorial Association, thanks to the heroic efforts of Rep. Duncan Hunter. Freedom of Conscience Defense Fund and attorney Peter Lepiscopo represented Congressman Hunter.
The Mt. Soledad Memorial Cross was erected in 1954 in La Jolla, CA to honor veterans who have served our armed forces. Veterans of any faith can have a place of honor on the Memorial, which is one of the most visited historical sites in San Diego. In September 2014, I had the pleasure to “ascend” the Memorial steps with former Senator Rick Santorum, who’s movie One Generation Away highlighted the Cross as a national monument. In fact, the day we were there, a Marine in uniform told us that he had just celebrated his retirement ceremony at this site due to its importance in his life and what it represents to him.
I have been told of many such ceremonies that have taken place at the Memorial Cross because it represents the sacrifice of many fallen veterans. When I mention to visitors of this 60 year old monument that some people want to take it down, you can imagine their reaction of profound disappointment. Why would anyone tear down a part of history and a monument that honors those who have served our Country?
We have held many prayer vigils and rallies to show our support of this beautiful memorial which is visible from miles away. Thanks to all of you who have supported the Mt. Soledad Cross and our efforts to assist in protecting the popular site.
This is a great victory for religious liberty and we must continue defending the right to display such memorials across the nation. As I have mentioned in the past, the persecutions and attacks will continue and intensify. We need more wins like the Mt. Soledad Memorial and our adversaries need to learn true tolerance.
Let’s savor the sweet taste of victory as we fight the good fight on the frontlines of the battlefield to protect memorials from being desecrated and your religious freedom from being stripped away.
Would you please continue to support our efforts in defending religious liberty and stand up for those who are being persecuted for their faith? We need your financial help of $50, $100, $1000, or even $10,000 in order to perform this work. Please prayerfully consider donating to FCDF in defense of life, marriage, and religious liberty.
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Thank you and God bless,
Charles LiMandri
President and Chief Counsel
Freedom of Conscience Defense Fund
