SF’s “Lost Boat Ceremony” Aboard WWII Submarine for Memorial Day (Pier 45)

San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

This Memorial Day in San Francisco, we are honoring the submariners who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Join us on Monday aboard the historic USS Pampanito for a powerful ceremony honoring submariners who made the ultimate sacrifice.

📍 Historic Pier 45 in Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco
🗓️ May 25, 10AM–12PM

The San Francisco Maritime National Park Association, the crew of the USS Pampanito, and the USSVI Mare Island Base cordially invite you to attend the Lost Boat Ceremony this Memorial Day, May 25, 2026 to honor those who have served and those on eternal patrol in the Submarine Service.

The Lost Boat Ceremony is a unique and time-honored service, established by WWII submarine veterans, and held in memory of the brave submariners lost during WWII and peacetime. At the heart of this formal ceremony is the roll call of the submarines on “eternal patrol,” where each submarine’s name and fate are solemnly recounted. The tribute is followed by the tolling of a muted bell and a ceremonial flag dip, symbolizing our gratitude for their service. The ceremony is particularly moving, as the USS Pampanito is itself a war veteran.

• Color guard
• Guest speakers, including navy veterans and local officials
• Attendees are invited to drop flowers into the water in remembrance of lost boats

Members of the public, veterans, and families are invited to attend this beautiful and moving Memorial Day service on the waterfront.

Reserve free tickets

Disclaimer: Please double check event information with the event organizer as events can be canceled, details can change after they are added to our calendar, and errors do occur.