A Grunt’s Journey
David Lopez enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps shortly after graduating from Cathedral High School at age of 17. Following boot camp and advanced infantry training, he was deployed to the Republic of South Vietnam and assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines.
During his tour, Lopez served in multiple roles including infantryman, tunnel rat, explosives expert, sniper, fire team leader, squad leader and platoon sergeant. He was critically wounded twice, once by a hand grenade and later by a booby trap that left his legs severely injured. Even after being told he would never walk again, Lopez carried the Olympic Torch in 1984.
In recognition of his service, Lopez received numerous awards and decorations, including:
- Two Purple Hearts
- Combat Action Ribbon
- Presidential Unit Citation
- Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry
Join us for an engaging discussion with Sgt. David E. “Bulldog” Lopez as he shares his powerful story of service during the Vietnam War. Moderated by Heroes Hall Historian Brenton Ogden, this event offers a first-hand account of the life of a Marine infantryman and his incredible story of courage, resilience and perseverance
