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Beirut Memorial
The Beirut Memorial was a gift from the citizens of Onslow County to honor those men that lived among us and gave so much. A solemn tribute to 273 Marines who gave the last full measure of devotion in Lebanon and Grenada on October 23, 1983. The names of each man are engraved in granite along with the words “They Came In Peace.” Set in a wooded site with beautiful landscaping, this is a fitting tribute to our military men and women who answer the call everyday without regard to personal safety. Each year, a Remembrance Observance takes place October 23, 10AM, at the Beirut Memorial to remember those who gave the greatest sacrifice for their country.
Lejeune Memorial Gardens is located at 109 Lejeune Blvd & Montford Landing Road, Jacksonville, NC. Free parking is available on Montford Point Road at the entrance to Lejeune Memorial Gardens.
Beirut Memorial Grove
The City of Jacksonville planted a living tribute to those killed in the 1983 Beirut bombing. A grove of 273 fall Flowering Chinese Pistache trees is located at the intersection of U.S. 17, N.C. 24 and Wilmington Highway across from Camp Geiger. The 273 trees represent those who lost their lives during the blast and related incidents. Jacksonville officials selected this new site for the creation of the Beirut Memorial Grove to replace the current Bradford pear trees which were planted to honor the troops killed in Beirut along Freedom Way. Some of the Bradford pear trees along this roadway have been removed, damaged, or have died over time. Changing NC DOT regulations have made it difficult for the City to safely replace trees. The City hopes that the new site and Flowering Chinese Pistache, which is hardier that the Bradford Pear, will ensure that this community will have continued remembrance of those who gave their lives in the 1983 Beirut bombing.