VERO BEACH, Fla. — Florida has the third-largest veteran population in the nation, and to make sure those individuals are recognized and honored, the city of Vero Beach created an island just for them.
Anyone can walk the island, which includes memorials from multiple branches of the U.S. military that have been carefully planned over the years.
Col. Tony Young, who served for 30 years in the Gulf War, Bosnian conflict and the Iraq invasion, said the island is a very special place.
“This is hallowed ground for Vero Beach. This is our Arlington cemetery," Young said. "So, we come here to honor people that have given their lives. And then also to inspire future leaders.”
Nobody is buried on the island, but veterans from Florida get special recognition there.
“If you are from Indian River County and die in service, you’re authorized to have one of these memorials,” Young said.
A river-dredging project after World War II created the island. The city of Vero Beach stepped in and purchased the land.
An easily accessible walkway from the parking lot to get on and off the island is open to everyone.
Former Marine John Matthews, who served in Vietnam, is chairman of Veterans Memorial Island Sanctuary.
As with many veterans, he often visits the island to reflect.
“It’s a wonderful spot," Matthews said. "As you can see, (it's) surrounded by beautiful water and great landscaping. The city really takes care of it.”
Veterans come to the Vero Beach Island from around the country to share stories and bond.
The island also hosts a variety of yearly celebrations that are open to everyone, including one recently commemorating families who have lost loved ones to crimes.
It plans to host a Memorial Day celebration May 26 beginning at 9 a.m.
“We understand the sacrifice. So, any decision to send soldiers or Marines, or whatever, to any part of the world has to be taken very seriously,” Young said.