Michael Monsoor, honoring the hero who never quit, 20 years later
Story by: Lt.j.g. Alitheia Wallace and Lt.j.g. Mitchell Duncan
NAVAL BASE SAN DIEGO (Sept. 29, 2026) - The crew of the Zumwalt-class guided-missile destroyer USS Michael Monsoor (DDG 1001) joined Naval Special Warfare Group 1, SEAL Team 3, the Monsoor family and distinguished guests to honor the life and legacy of Master-at-Arms 2nd Class (SEAL) Michael A. Monsoor.
Today’s commemoration, known as the “Day of Valor”, marks the 20th anniversary of Monsoor’s heroic actions in Ramadi, Iraq. Monsoor gave his life to protect his SEAL Team 3 teammates after a grenade landed among them during a firefight. For his heroic and selfless actions, he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.
The observance began with a morning memorial hosted by SEAL Team 3 in Imperial Beach, California. After the memorial, USS Michael Monsoor hosted guests on board for a walkthrough of the ship’s “Hall of Heroes” and a screening of a documentary honoring Michael Monsoor. Guests included members of the Monsoor family, his teammates, several officers who served in Ramadi, and other distinguished guests.
The event is part of the ship’s “Week of Valor,” which recognizes Monsoor’s sacrifice, courage and enduring example of selfless leadership.
“Michael Monsoor’s actions were the epitome of selfless leadership,” said Capt. Jeremiah Jackson, executive officer of USS Michael Monsoor. “Being able to commemorate a hero like Michael Monsoor is truly an honor, and we are giving it our all to do his memory justice.”
For the crew, this week serves as both a time of remembrance and a renewed commitment to uphold the standards represented by the ship’s namesake.
Sara Monsoor Gonzalez, Michael Monsoor’s sister, said the family remains deeply appreciative of the crew’s efforts to preserve his legacy.
“Mike embraced life fully and believed deeply in what was right and good. He was kind to his core, guided by an unwavering moral compass, a deeply protective heart, and a selflessness that always put others before himself,” She said. “His legacy is not simply the life he lived, but the love, goodness, and compassion he shared with everyone fortunate enough to know him. Our family is deeply grateful to the crew as they continue to help preserve and honor his legacy.”
Among the artifacts displayed in the ship’s “Hall of Heroes” is the cover Monsoor wore during his training to become a Navy SEAL. Written inside are the words, “You never quit,” a message that continues to resonate with the crew.
“Mike didn’t quit, and neither will we,” said Capt. Hiram Andreu, commanding officer of USS Michael Monsoor. “Monsoor’s crew relentlessly strives to live up to their namesake. We are proud to honor him, and we will continue to do everything in our power to make his loved ones proud.”
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