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Memorial Day Lost Boat Ceremony

  • USS Pampanito Pier 45, Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco, CA 94133 San Francisco, CA 94133 (map)

The San Francisco Maritime National Park Association, the crew of the USS Pampanito and the USSVI Mare Island Base cordially invite you to attend the Lost Boat Ceremony to honor those who have served and those on eternal patrol in the Submarine Service.

The Lost Boat Ceremony is a unique and time-honored service, established by WWII submarine veterans, and held in memory of the brave submariners lost during WWII and peacetime. At the heart of this formal ceremony is the roll call of the submarines on “eternal patrol,” where each submarine’s name and fate are solemnly recounted. The tribute is followed by the tolling of a muted bell and a ceremonial flag dip, symbolizing our gratitude for their service. The ceremony is particularly moving, as the USS Pampanito is itself a war veteran.

* Official military color guard
* Guest speakers, including navy veterans and local officials
* Attendees are invited to drop flowers into the water in remembrance of lost boats
* Members of the public, veterans, and families are invited to attend this beautiful and moving Memorial Day service on the waterfront.