The Beaches Fallen Wartime Heroes Monument was dedicated Saturday in Atlantic Beach, honoring 63 local service members who sacrificed their lives.

Author: Hajah Bah

Published: 7:03 PM EDT October 11, 2025

ATLANTIC BEACH, Fla. — A new monument now stands in Atlantic Beach, honoring dozens of local service members who made the ultimate sacrifice. The Beaches Fallen Wartime Heroes Monument was officially dedicated today at Beaches Veterans Memorial Park, bringing together families, veterans and local leaders for a day of reflection and gratitude.

“I want one day the kids talk by this monument, look at those names and say who were they — and we can answer, they were heroes,” said Lenny Jevic, historian for Beaches Veterans Memorial Park.

The monument features the names of 63 fallen service members from Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach and Mayport — each one etched in stone as a lasting tribute. Jevic says the project has been years in the making.

“I am over the moon. This is a project that has been near and dear to my heart,” Jevic said.

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.

ARTICLE WITH VIDEO FEATURING JULIE HAMMOND GSSA TREASURER