Seventy-five years after First Lieutenant Baldomero López’s actions in the Korean War, the City of Tampa will commemorate his legacy with a public ceremony on September 15. The event coincides with the anniversary of López’s death and the start of Hispanic Heritage Month.
López, a Marine and graduate of Hillsborough High School, led his platoon during the Inchon landing in Korea on September 15, 1950. After being wounded by enemy fire while holding a live grenade, he pulled it beneath himself to shield his fellow servicemen. This act resulted in his posthumous receipt of the Medal of Honor and established his name as an important figure in Tampa’s history.
The remembrance ceremony will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. at Centro Asturiano de Tampa, located at 1913 N. Nebraska Ave. Mayor Jane Castor is scheduled to deliver remarks and present a proclamation. Judge E.J. Salcines will reflect on López’s significance in Tampa’s history, while military leaders will discuss the impact of his actions during the Korean War. The event is expected to draw around 200 attendees, including elected officials, representatives from MacDill Air Force Base, and community members.
“By opening Hispanic Heritage Month with this ceremony, the City of Tampa pays tribute not only to López’s sacrifice, but also to the enduring contributions of Hispanic Americans to our nation’s history.”
Baldomero López was born in Ybor City in 1925 and graduated from Hillsborough High School before attending the U.S. Naval Academy and joining the Marine Corps. His legacy is reflected throughout Tampa through landmarks such as a school, nursing home, public pool, and Florida’s Korean War memorial that bear his name.
Members of the media are invited to attend by RSVPing via email.
