‘A great honor’ Indio proclaims ‘Hunter Lopez Day’ Aug.26 in honor of fallen Marine

The City of Indio officially proclaims August 26th as 'Hunter Lopez Day' in honor of the fallen corporal.

Marine Corporal Hunter Lopez, 22, was among the 13 U.S. service members killed on Aug. 26, 2021 in a terrorist attack during evacuations in Kabul, Afghanistan.

“It's very reassuring that the community will continue to remember the work that not only Hunter but really all of our service members do. So it's just a great day and a great honor for the community," said Lopez's parents Herman and Alicia.

Hunter was born in Palm Springs, grew up in Indio, and graduated from La Quinta High School in 2017. He is survived by his parents, brother Owen and sister Trinity.

Watch: Marine Cpl Hunter Lopez’s parents share his story

Lopez say that even almost 2 years later, it feels like just yesterday when Hunter was still home.

“It seems like a lot of time has passed but for something that's significant, it's almost like yesterday, especially when you get closer to the actual date of August 26," Herman said.

I’ve been in touch with the Lopez’s since it all happened. Each year as it gets closer to this date, they’ve told me it’s always tough. The community’s support helps them get through it.

“We've spoken to other Gold Star families and tried to get some advice from them as how to cope and you know, no one really has an answer. It's just kind of time helps you find ways to deal with everything," he said.

Since Hunter’s death, they’ve worked to keep his name alive through the Hunter Lopez Memorial Foundation.

With the city’s proclamation, August 26 will be day when Hunter’s legacy will live on.

“One of our missions from the very beginning was to keep Hunter's name out there and it really has a reassurance to us, but also as a reminder to the community of the sacrifice that comes with our freedom.”

This is a look at the Gold Star memorial in La Quinta.

The Lopez’s are planning a vigil to honor the 2 year anniversary of hunter and his fellow service members who made the ultimate sacrifice.