ATLANTIC BEACH, Fla. — A solemn addition to Atlantic Beach’s landscape, the Beaches Fallen Wartime Heroes Monument was dedicated today at the Beaches Veterans Memorial Park. The event gathered families, veterans, and community leaders in a poignant moment of remembrance and appreciation for those who have served and sacrificed.

“I hope that one day, as children pass by this monument, they will look at these names and ask, ‘Who were they?’ and we can proudly say, ‘They were heroes,’” expressed Lenny Jevic, the historian for Beaches Veterans Memorial Park.

The monument bears the names of 63 fallen heroes from the communities of Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach, and Mayport. Each name is meticulously carved into the stone, serving as an enduring homage. Jevic shared that the creation of this monument has been a long-held dream.

“I am thrilled beyond words. This project is incredibly close to my heart,” Jevic remarked.

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.