Nation and Coachella Valley Honor Fallen Marine Hunter Lopez on Anniversary of Kabul Attack

Communities across the nation paused this week to honor the 13 U.S. service members killed in the August 26, 2021, bombing at Kabul Airport, including Marine Corporal Hunter Lopez of La Quinta.

On Monday, President Donald Trump welcomed Gold Star families to the White House, where he signed a proclamation marking the four-year anniversary of the attack at Abbey Gate. Among those present were the parents of Corporal Lopez, who stood with other families who lost loved ones during the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Locally, the City of La Quinta is hosting a special tribute this evening in honor of Hunter Lopez Day. A lightsaber vigil will be held at 7 p.m. at the Civic Center Campus, located at Washington Street and Calle Tampico. The vigil replaces candles with lightsabers as a nod to Hunter’s lifelong love of Star Wars. Community members are encouraged to gather in remembrance and solidarity.

Earlier today, the Indio City Council also joined in honoring the sacrifice of service members. Leaders presented a proclamation recognizing U.S. Army Veteran Sergeant Richard Gauthier, along with a second proclamation commending city employees who have served in the armed forces.

Officials and family members alike are encouraging the public to support the Hunter Lopez Memorial Foundation, which provides resources for veterans and youth programs in the Coachella Valley.

The tributes serve as both a remembrance of sacrifice and a reminder of the community’s enduring commitment to honor its fallen heroes.