SAN DIEGO -- The debate over the Mount Soledad Veterans Memorial Cross continued on Saturday, as hundreds of supporters rallied against the 9th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals decision declaring the cross unconstitutional.

"We need to support our veterans and the service to our country," said veteran Larry Prather.

Politicians, veterans, and residents spoke out against the Jan. 4th decision by the Court of Appeals, which said the 43-foot cross was unconstitutional and conveyed a message of government-endorsed religion.

Resident Maressa Conover does not agree with the ruling.

"This cross here does not establish a national religion. Anyone can come up here or they don’t have to come here," said Conover.

The decision did not explicitly say the cross has to come down, but that the memorial could be "modified."

The cross, which sits on federal land, was dedicated in 1954 to honor Korean War veterans. It has been the center of legal challenges for more than 20 years.

"The battle over this cross to me has been a terrible waste of money. It's an argument I don't think has any merit," said Prather.

Amidst the mostly pro-cross crowd Saturday afternoon, Debbie Allen held her sign that read, "Keep religion out of government."

"I think the cross should be moved to private land," said Allen, who is from the San Diego Coalition of Reason. The coalition represents several atheist and skeptic organizations.

Allen added, "There are many churches, there are many homes that would welcome this cross and I would be very supportive. All citizens of the United States of America include all citizens who are believers and non-believers."

Recently, Duncan D. Hunter introduced a bill that would allow religious symbols on military monuments.

Attorneys on both sides believe the final decision will ultimately go to the Supreme Court.