Rooftop Oath Dedication Event
21 February 2026 – 118 Broadway, San Antonio, Texas
The Rooftop Oath Dedication marks a historic moment of remembrance and preservation at 118 Broadway in San Antonio, Texas. This effort seeks to formally recognize the site where young men from South Texas—including the Weslaco Eight—raised their right hands and took the oath of enlistment during World War II. Through permanent plaques and a public ceremony, the dedication ensures that this place, and the decisions made here, are preserved for generations to come.
The Dedication Event
The public dedication ceremony to commemorate the Rooftop Oath and unveil the memorial plaques at 118 Broadway will bring together veterans, families, historians, civic leaders, students, and members of the community to honor those who answered the nation’s call during World War II.
How the Rooftop was Found
The story of the Rooftop Oath did not begin as a planned project. It began with a single photograph and a question that led back to 118 Broadway—and eventually to the effort now underway to mark the site.
What is Being Dedicated
The dedication will formally mark the rooftop of the former United States Marine Corps induction center at 118 Broadway, a site that witnessed thousands of young Americans step forward to serve during the Second World War as United States Marines. Permanent plaques will be installed to interpret the historical significance of the location, identify those who took their oath here, and place the Rooftop Oath within the broader story of South Texas service during the war.
Plaque No. 1 – Stone Pediment, Left of Flag Pole
The first plaque centers on the iconic “Rooftop Oath” photograph. Each individual is identified by name, noting the campaigns in which they served and recording whether they were wounded or gave their lives in the conflict. The plaque measures 16″ x 16″ and will be located on the stone pediment, left of the existing flag pole. (The image is conceptual)
Plaque No. 2 – Stone Pediment, Right of Flag Pole
The second plaque links the Rooftop Oath directly to one of the most recognizable images in American history—the flag raising on Iwo Jima. It identifies Harlon Block as one of the Marines in that photograph, while also acknowledging him as one of the thirteen young men who took their oath of enlistment on this rooftop and as a member of the Weslaco Eight. Alongside the Iwo Jima image, the plaque features Harlon Block’s enlistment photograph and presents key details of his life and service. The plaque is 16″ x 16″ and will be placed to the right of the flag pole on the stone pediment. (The image is conceptual)
Plaque No. 3 - Street Level, Building Facade
The 18″ × 14″ plaque mounted on the façade of 118 Broadway marks the building’s historical significance during World War II and serves as an introduction for passersby at street level. Designed for public viewing, the plaque provides concise historical context, inviting those who encounter it to pause, reflect, and understand the important role this building played in the wartime story of San Antonio and the nation.
A Living Tribute
The Rooftop Oath Dedication, brought to you by the Conservators of the Greatest Generation (COGG), is designed not only to mark a historic site, but to bring together generations in a shared act of remembrance. Through the participation of students, veterans, historians, and preservation groups, the event reflects how the legacy of World War II continues to be honored, taught, and passed forward.
The Rooftop Oath Dedication brings together active service members, civic leaders, educators, students and historical organizations in a shared act of remembrance:
- Active-Duty United States Marine Corps Servicemembers
Participating in uniform to honor those who first took their oath at this site and with whom they share the same unit lineage. - Veterans and Veteran Service Organizations
Including members of the Marine Corps League, American Legion, and other veterans’ groups. - Weslaco High School JROTC
Representing the next generation of Americans committed to service and leadership and honoring the memory of their predecessors, the Weslaco Eight, Weslaco High School graduates, Class of ’43. - Taft High School Jazz Band
Performing music of the World War II era during the dedication. - Commemorative Air Force
Providing World War II aircraft participation and commemorative flyover. - Local, County, and City Officials
Representing the City of San Antonio and Bexar County. - Historians, Authors, and Researchers
Supporting the historical interpretation and preservation of the site. - Members of the Public and Descendants of WWII Servicemen
Joining in remembrance and community reflection.
Support the Rooftop Oath Event
Help complete the plaques, installation and the dedication day experience.
This dedication by COGG is being built with the same care as the history it honors. Your support helps fund the four permanent plaques, installation, event components, and the on-site elements that will bring this story and event to life for the public.
