Beloved 'Bottom Gun' Caretaker Retires at 90 From Mt. Soledad Veterans Memorial
A 90-year-old longtime caretaker known as 'Bottom Gun' is stepping down from his role at Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial after years of service.
A familiar figure at the Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial in the San Diego area is stepping away from his longtime post. At 90 years old, the caretaker known affectionately as "Bottom Gun" is retiring, marking the close of a chapter that visitors and fellow veterans say helped shape the memorial's daily rhythm.
A Role Built Over the Years
The memorial, perched above the La Jolla coastline, honors veterans from every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Bottom Gun became a steady presence on the grounds, taking on responsibilities that ranged from greeting visitors to quietly maintaining the site. His nickname, colleagues and friends recall, was given in keeping with the memorial's casual tradition of playful call signs.
Those who visited Mt. Soledad often came across him near the plaques and flagpoles, offering directions, sharing stories, or simply pausing to talk. For many returning veterans, that kind of familiar welcome has made the memorial feel less like a monument and more like a community gathering place.
Reflections From the Memorial Community
News of his retirement drew an outpouring of appreciation from volunteers and visitors who have crossed paths with him over the years. Staff at the memorial described him as a calming, dependable presence whose dedication set an example for newer volunteers.
- He spent years greeting visitors and supporting memorial operations at the La Jolla site.
- He became part of the memorial's broader veteran support network through daily interactions.
- His retirement was marked by warm goodbyes from staff, families, and fellow volunteers.
The memorial has not yet announced a direct successor. In the meantime, volunteers and staff are expected to share duties at the site, which remains open to visitors daily. More broadly, Bottom Gun's departure echoes a wider conversation about recognizing veteran caretakers, an issue advocates have highlighted through proposals such as a 'Green Star' designation aimed at honoring veterans, including those lost to suicide. Community members have also pointed to related efforts such as welcome-home events for veterans returning from Honor Flight trips, which show how much recognition of service can mean to older generations.