The few. The proud. Leatherneck. Patriot. Call them what you will, but for more than 230 years the men and women who serve in the United States Marine Corps have been watching out for America’s interests “from the halls of Montezuma, to the shores of Tripoli,” as their hymn goes. And for more than six decades, the city of San Clemente has had a special relationship with the Corps, as the place where many Marines, both active-duty and retired, make their home. In tribute to these special residents, more than $100,000 in private funds paid for the creation of the bronze statue modeled on the towering figure cut by Sgt. Rob Elliot of the 5th Marines, who was stationed at Camp Pendleton. Erected in 2005 and now forever in salute at Park Semper Fi overlooking the San Clemente Pier, the figure stands as a reminder of those always on the job.
