Hundreds gather for lightsaber vigil to honor fallen Marine Cpl. Hunter Lopez

LA QUINTA, Calif. (KESQ) - Hundreds gathered in La Quinta Wednesday night to honor local fallen Marine Corporal Hunter Lopez and the 12 other U.S. service members killed in the Kabul airport attack five years ago.

The 5th annual Hunter Lopez Lightsaber Vigil transformed the Civic Center Campus into a sea of lights as community members raised lightsabers in tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

"So as we raise our sabers, we do so in honor of the fellow fallen heroes. May their memory continue to shine through us like these lights cut through the darkness," said La Quinta Mayor Linda Evans.

Lopez, a 22-year-old La Quinta High School graduate and lifelong Star Wars fan, was remembered not only for his service to the country, but for the impact he continues to have on the community he called home.

"We have a monument there in Hunter's name, but Hunter's true memorial isn't carved in stone. It's carried in the hearts of his family, his fellow Marines, his friends, and this community. It's there every time we say his name, every time we tell a story, every time a young person hears about Hunter and learns what service, courage, and duty looks like. And that's why tonight it shouldn't only be about how Hunter died; it should be about how Hunter lived," said La Quinta Councilmember Steve Sanchez.

This year's vigil also honored military members and first responders, with families sharing photos of loved ones who have dedicated their lives to serving others.

The Lopez family launched the Hunter Lopez Memorial Foundation to raise money to help those who protect and serve our country, including a scholarship fund for students at La Quinta High School. Click here to donate and/or learn more.