On the San Diego waterfront is a fantastic US Navy aircraft carrier and naval aviation museum; the USS Midway (CV-41). A carrier which proudly served the US Navy from 1945 to 1991.
Nearby to USS Midway are a number of military memorials and tributes including one to Bob Hope (1903-2003) who provided a lot of well needed humour for troops during his USO tours from 1941 to 1990(!) which included visits to frontline troops in World War Two, the Korean War, the Vietnam War and the Gulf War. In 1997 Bob Hope became the first honorary veteran of the US Armed Forces. At the tribute statues they play sound bytes from his tours which is a lot of fun.
Next to the Bob Hope tribute there is also the “Unconditional Surrender” memorial, featuring a giant couple kissing in celebration of the end of World War Two. This statue was inspired by a famous photo taken by Alfred Eisenstaedt in Times Square, New York City on VJ Day August 14th, 1945.
A quick trip across the bay to Coronado Island by ferry provides the vista of the San Diego skyline along with the waterfront and navy yards. Coronado Island has more than just great views and is a great little day trip with lots of restaurants, bars, shops to enjoy.
“You stay classy San Diego” – Ron Burgundy, Anchorman (2004)
The sheer number and quality of the bronze statues at the Bob Hope memorial are amazing. I also like how some of Mr Hope’s live performances are played back.
Yes its a fantastic piece of art. A great tribute!