ATLANTIC BEACH, Fla. — Standing proudly in Atlantic Beach is a newly dedicated monument, a lasting homage to local heroes. Unveiled at the Beaches Veterans Memorial Park, the Beaches Fallen Wartime Heroes Monument was officially dedicated in a heartfelt ceremony attended by families, veterans, and community leaders, who gathered to reflect and express their gratitude.

“I hope that one day, children passing by this monument will see these names and ask about the people behind them — and we can proudly say they were heroes,” remarked Lenny Jevic, the historian for Beaches Veterans Memorial Park.

This monument bears the names of 63 fallen service members from Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach, and Mayport, each name carefully inscribed in stone to ensure their legacy endures. Jevic shared that this tribute has been a long-term goal, finally realized.

“I am thrilled beyond words. This project has held a special place in my heart for years,” Jevic expressed.

Among the names engraved is Joseph Howard Pierce Jr., who was drafted in Duval County into the Vietnam War. He was killed in action in 1969, just nine months after deployment. His son, Joseph Pierce, attended the unveiling.

“I was small when he served in Vietnam and was killed in action. To see this come back with the generation of veterans that are here —  it is an honor to be among them,” Pierce said.

“It’s a unique feeling being a family member  through the 70s there was a lot of silence because of the turmoil and the veterans coming back,” Pierce added.

Jevic says the monument ensures future generations never forget.

“They are on that wall. We will never forget them. We will always honor them and keep them in our hearts,” Jevi said.