Hillside Memorial

The UNSC hillside Memorial is a tribute to the fallen soldiers of the United Nations Space Command who died in the 28-year Human-Covenant war.

The Memorial
The memorial was set up by Lord Hood, and many survivors and other soldiers attended it, including Sergeant Pete Stacker and the Arbiter. The memorial is shaped like a Pelican's wing, and upon it are the words UNSCDF, March 3, 2553. and pictures of those died. The Master Chief was thought to be dead, so they scribbled the number "117" in memory of him, as he had no possessions.

The Tribute
Lord Hood removes his cap and makes a speech remembering those deceased. A senior Marine NCO (Sergeant Stacker) orders 7 Marines to stand in a line, draw their Battle Rifles and fire a single shot in unison.

The Storm Has Passed
On a hillside near the Gateway to the Ark, Marines gather. Lord Hood removes his hat, and begins his speech.

Admiral Hood: "For us, the storm has passed. The war is over. But let us never forget those who journeyed into the howling dark and did not return. For their decision required courage beyond measure...sacrifice, and unshakable conviction that their fight, our fight, was elsewhere. As we start to rebuild, this hillside will remain barren, a memorial to heroes fallen. They ennobled all of us, and they shall not be forgotten."

(Admiral Hood puts his hat back on, and salutes.)

Sergeant Stacker: "Present arms!"

(7 marines raise their SR Battle Rifles and each fire a single burst of three shots: a 3-volley salute. The view pans over the Ark Portal, now closed and silent, and Mt. Kilimanjaro against the evening sky.)

Known Deceased
-Commander Miranda Keyes -Sergeant Major Avery Junior Johnson -Master Chief Petty Officer SPARTAN John-117 (assumed)