The memorial features life-sized bronze figures of Bob Hope and several service members, including a sailor, soldier, airman, and marine.
Bob Hope traveled to military bases worldwide for over 50 years to entertain troops, a service recognized by Congress as a permanent tribute.
The memorial includes a 'paved' area that mimics the stage flooring used during his overseas USO tours.
Artist Richard Becker designed the sculptures to capture the casual, engaging posture Hope was known for during his live performances.
The project was funded through private donations and community contributions rather than public tax dollars.
The memorial includes a speaker system that occasionally plays recordings of Bob Hope’s USO performance monologues.
The National Salute to Bob Hope and the Military is an outdoor memorial installation situated at Tuna Harbor Park, honoring the entertainer's long-term commitment to performing for U.S. troops. The centerpiece is a bronze sculpture depicting Bob Hope performing for a group of service members, recreating his famous USO tour scenes. Created by artist Richard Becker, the artwork was unveiled in 2009. The site features a series of plaques and imagery documenting Hope's USO service across multiple decades and conflicts. It is located on the San Diego waterfront, adjacent to the historic USS Midway Museum. The memorial is integrated into the Port of San Diego's Tidelands art collection. It serves as a commemorative space for military history enthusiasts and fans of mid-century American entertainment. The bronze figures are life-sized, allowing visitors to stand among the troupe for a contextual perspective of his performances.
Stand directly in the center of the bronze group to capture a 'stage-eye' view of the audience figures.
Visit during the late afternoon to catch the sunset over the San Diego Bay directly behind the memorial.
Combine this visit with the USS Midway Museum, as they are part of the same pedestrian-friendly waterfront stretch.
Check the Port of San Diego art map online before visiting for additional nearby sculpture information.
Do not mistake the nearby Unconditional Surrender (Kissing Sailor) statue for this memorial, as they are separate installations along the same harbor path.
