Military & Veterans Appreciation

The City of Atlantic Beach is proud to honor and memorialize the contributions and sacrifices of U.S. military personnel, as well as support them and their veterans. This page is dedicated to the men and women who have answered the call to leave their families and put their futures and even their lives on the line to defend our nation and its inalienable rights valiantly.

Is there anything nobler and braver than defending the United States of America to keep us safe and free? Insurify – a company that provides automobile insurance quotes to consumers – determines which U.S. communities have the greatest share of active service members and veterans. The company’s data science and research team analyzed their database of more than 2 million insurance applications to determine which cities have the highest percentage of current and former service members. And, as it turns out, Atlantic Beach has the most citizens in Florida per capita who have risked their lives in service of our nation.

We are profoundly grateful to Atlantic Beach resident Lenny Jevic for his unwavering commitment to honoring our nation’s fallen wartime veterans. A retired U.S. Navy Command Master Chief and former Atlantic Beach police sergeant, Lenny is the historian for Beaches Veterans Memorial Park, Inc. Lenny has been the driving force behind numerous recent initiatives throughout the Beaches communities to recognize and remember the sacrifices of U.S. military personnel. Among his many contributions is the Fallen Wartime Veterans Signs of Honor Program, which places street signs bearing the names, ranks, branches of service, and military honors of local veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. We thank him for his heartfelt efforts to ensure our heroes are never forgotten.

Beaches Veterans Memorial Park

Beaches Veterans Memorial Park is at 1 West First Street, at Atlantic Boulevard and Mayport Road in Atlantic Beach, adjacent to American Legion Post 316. The park serves as a powerful symbol of gratitude and remembrance for military service members, while also providing a valuable recreational and gathering space for the community. The park features various military memorials, including one with chaplains’ names in pavers from various conflicts, and bricks commemorating the 37 crew members lost on the USS Stark.

A Place of Remembrance and More: Beaches Veterans Memorial Park stands as a solemn tribute to the men and women who have served in the U.S. military, especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice. At its heart lies the Memorial Garden, surrounded by monuments dedicated to each branch of the Armed Services, and a “Walk of Honor” leading to the towering 80-foot central flagpole. Families may also purchase memorial bricks, placed along the “Honor Walkway,” to offer a personal and lasting tribute to loved ones who have served. Yet, this park -- this sacred ground -- is more than a place of remembrance. It is a place of promise. A promise that the lives we honor will never be forgotten. Their courage will continue to inspire us, and their sacrifice will forever shape who we are as a community and a nation. This park is more than a pause in our busy lives; it is a call to live in a way that is worthy of the heroes we remember. Let us teach our children their names, tell their stories, and reflect their values in how we care for one another.
Active Community Space: Beyond its memorial aspect, the park is an active community space. It features amenities such as a playground, basketball court, benches, and a stage. The stage is particularly important as it hosts the Beaches' annual Memorial Day and Veterans Day events, drawing the community together to reflect and pay tribute.
History and Development: The land for the park was purchased by the City of Atlantic Beach in 2003. Initial improvements included a playground and basic landscaping. In 2010, a master plan was approved, leading to the installation of an 80-foot flagpole (dedicated on Veterans Day 2010) and a 14,000 square foot stage (completed by Memorial Day 2011). The Chaplains Memorial Garden, with its monuments and engraved brick pavers, was completed in 2015, finalizing the master plan. The development of the park has been a collaborative effort, with financial and "sweat equity" support from various veterans' organizations in the Beaches area.

Beaches Veterans Memorial Park, Inc.

Beaches Veterans Memorial Park Inc. is a nonprofit organization led by a dedicated group of volunteers committed to the ongoing development and preservation of the park. The committee's mission is to create and maintain a meaningful memorial space where the community can gather to honor and reflect upon the sacrifices and service of our military veterans.

Financial Support: The committee raises funds through various means, including the sale of memorial bricks that honor individual veterans and through fundraisers held by local military fraternal organizations. Purchase bricks here.
Park Development: The committee plays a crucial role in the ongoing development and maintenance of the park. They were instrumental in the initial master planning and construction of the park, which includes a memorial garden, a flagpole, a stage, and other amenities.
Honoring Veterans: At the heart of the committee and the park is a sacred commitment: to honor our local fallen heroes; to remember with deep gratitude the military chaplains who made the ultimate sacrifice in every war; and to offer a lasting place where families can come to reflect, remember, and celebrate the lives of their loved ones who served, past and present.
Events: The committee collaborates with local veterans' organizations to host special programs on Memorial Day and Veterans Day at the park, featuring distinguished speakers and ceremonial programs.
Non-profit Status: The organization is a registered non-profit, and donations made to the committee are tax-deductible.

Beaches Fallen Wartime Heroes Monument

Honoring Our Own: A Monument to the Beaches' Fallen Heroes.
Beaches Veterans Memorial Park, Inc., with support from the cities of Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, and Jacksonville Beach, along with area businesses, organizations, and residents, dedicated a Fallen Heroes Monument at Beaches Veterans Memorial Park in October 2025. This monument honors the 63 brave service members from our Beaches communities who left home to serve and made the ultimate sacrifice, never returning. Many were graduates of Fletcher High School, and they served with courage and commitment in World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, the War on Terrorism, and the Cold War. The names were selected based on pre-established criteria. The monument ensures that these local heroes are remembered with the dignity they deserve, and it provides a place of reflection, healing, and gratitude for their families, friends, and the entire community. Together, we honor their legacy; together, we remember. (Here is a larger image of the monument.)

Beaches Fallen Wartime Veterans Signs of Honor

This heartfelt initiative is designed to permanently honor local service members who died in wars. The program is spearheaded by Atlantic Beach resident Lenny Jevic, who was inspired by a similar program in his hometown of Edison, N.J.

Purpose: The core goal is to ensure that the sacrifices of Atlantic Beach residents who gave their lives in service to the country are never forgotten. It provides a tangible, public tribute to these fallen heroes.
The Signs: These are distinctive royal blue street signs that are placed either above or below existing street signs. Each sign includes:
1. The veteran's name.
2. Their rank.
3. Their branch of service.
4. Their highest military decorations.
Implementation: The City Commission approved the project by resolution in October 2020. The first signs were installed just in time for Veterans Day that year, honoring World War II and Vietnam veterans with ties to the city.
Expansion: The program has been so successful that Lenny brought similar programs to Jacksonville Beach and Neptune Beach.
Impact: The Signs of Honor program serves as a constant reminder to residents and visitors of the bravery and ultimate sacrifice made by these local heroes. It's a powerful way to preserve their memory and educate future generations about the cost of freedom. The program is largely supported by community efforts and often sponsored by local businesses, with minimal cost to taxpayers.
Honorees and Locations:
- Atlantic Beach
  - 2LT John J. Ahern Jr. – US Army- Ocean Blvd/Ahern St
  - LTJG Richard Bull – US Navy – Beach Ave/Eleventh St.
  - SSG Robert B. David – US Army – Seminole Rd/David Ave.
  - SFC Leroy Everett – US Army – Dutton Island Rd/Mealy St.
  - PFC Solomon C. Sturdivant – US Army- Sherry Dr./Sturdivant Ave.
  - CAPT Rexwood S. Thames Jr. – US Marines – Second St/ Sherry Dr
  - LT James F. Thames – US Navy – Beach Ave/Ahern St
- Jacksonville Beach
  - GYSGT Benjamin A. Chitko – US Marines – 3^rd St./8^th Ave N.
  - PVT Kenjiro Yoshida – US Army – 3^rd St N./Pablo Ave
  - 1^st LT John W. Deam – US Army – 11^th St N./3^rd Ave N.
  - PFC Ivan R. Wellington Jr. – US Army – 9^th Ave N./1^st St N.
  - CAPT Roger P. Harrell – US Marines – 9^th Ave S./3^rd St. S.
  - CPL Stanley M. Harrell – US Marines – 8^th Ave S./3^rd St S.
  - CPL Ottis O. Boxx – US Marines – 3^rd St S./1^st Ave S.
  - PFC John H. Franks – US Army – Oakwood Rd/Tallwood Rd
  - CPL Marcus W. Preudhomme – US Marines - Tanglewood Rd/Pinewood Rd
  - PFC Phillip O. Hammond – US Army – 4^th Ave S./3^rd St S.
  - PFC William R. Gast – US Marines – 19^th Ave N/3^rd St N.
  - PFC Richmond R. Luce – US Army – 5^th Ave N./3^rd St N.
  - PVT Asbury Kelly – US Marines – 2^nd Ave N./Penman Rd
  - PFC Harold E. Owens – US Marines – 10th Place S/5th St
  - PFC Dewayne Corbitt – US Marines – 13 St. N/9th Ave. N
  - SGT Gerard M. Reed – US Army - Lincoln Court/ 9th Street S
  - PFC Clarence E. Hurst – US Marines – Pablo Ave/4th St
  - PFC William L. Lester" Robinson – US Army – 8th Ave W/9th St N
  - SPC5 Jimie E. Keith – US Army – 9th Ave N/22nd St N
- Neptune Beach
  - CAPT John Fredrick Lorraine Jr. – US Air Force – Myrtle St./3^rd St N.
  - CDR Thomas E. Dunlop – US Navy – 1^st St. N./Lemon St.
  - CPL Dennis L. Bunting – US Army – Margaret St./3^rd St. N.
  - SGT Joseph H. Pierce Jr – US Army -Hopkins St./3^rd St. N.

America 250! Patriots Marker

In 2025, the Daughters of the American Revolution's Jean Ribault Chapter dedicated an America 250! Patriots Marker at Beaches Veterans Memorial Park in commemoration of the United States' 250th birthday. The marker honors the men and women who fought valiantly for the cause of liberty to found a new nation.

City of Jacksonville Military Affairs and Veterans Department

The department offers veterans, their families, and the community veterans' entitlement services for eligible veterans and their families; employment and social service case management services for qualifying veterans and their families; and public relations and marketing services designed to bring veterans, their issues and the community closer together through awareness, outreach, veteran-related special events and development and maintenance of community partnerships. Learn more here.

Memorial Day and Veterans Day Observances

The Beaches' Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies are held at Beaches Veterans Memorial Park. These are important annual red-white-and-blue events; we encourage everyone to attend. They are held at 9 a.m.

Merchant Marine Monument

The community has a monument at Beaches Veterans Memorial Park honoring the men and women of the U.S. Merchant Marine and Navy Armed Guards. Check out www.coab.us/MerchantMarine.

Purple Heart City

The City of Atlantic Beach was designated a "Purple Heart City" in 2018 by the Military Order of the Purple Heart. This Congressionally chartered organization supports combat-wounded veterans and works to ensure that Americans never forget the sacrifices made by U.S. military personnel. To earn this designation, a municipality must have a living or deceased Purple Heart recipient, issue an official proclamation, and recognize National Purple Heart Day. The City of Atlantic Beach also supports the Consolidated City of Jacksonville's annual Purple Heart Day observance. The Purple Heart is the United States military's oldest military decoration, dating back to 1782. It is awarded to members of the armed forces of the United States who have been wounded or killed while serving in the line of duty with the U.S. military after April 5, 1917.

'A Purple Heart' Christmas

In 2022, 12-year-old Atlantic Beach resident Taylor Saloreno. published "A Purple Heart Christmas," a book based on a little girl's wish to spend Christmas with her great-grandfather. Her late great-grandfather, Pat Carmody, was a World War II Purple Heart recipient.

Veteran-Only Parking Space at City Hall

To show gratitude and honor to veterans for their service and sacrifices to the country, the City of Atlantic Beach has a Veteran-only parking space in front of City Hall at Jack Russell Park. Many veterans, particularly older ones or those with service-connected injuries (even if not outwardly visible), may have mobility challenges or "invisible disabilities" like PTSD that can make navigating crowded parking lots and long walks difficult or anxiety-inducing. Providing closer, designated spots can offer a small but meaningful convenience. The intent is for non-veterans to respectfully leave this space open for those who served.

Veterans in Crisis: Help is Available 24-7

On April 12, 2025, the Beaches Veterans Memorial Park Committee and Greater Beaches VFW Post 3270 held a solemn memorial tree dedication ceremony at Beaches Veterans Memorial Park in honor of U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Randall D. Hansen of Jacksonville Beach.

A proud graduate of Fletcher High School, Sgt. Hansen was the son of two U.S. Marine Corps veterans and followed in their footsteps by serving his country with distinction. He completed two combat tours in Fallujah, Iraq, demonstrating exceptional courage and a deep commitment to his fellow Marines and the nation. Upon returning home, Randall bravely battled the invisible wounds of war, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Tragically, he lost his life to the mental and emotional struggles many veterans face after service.

The memorial tree, generously provided by the City of Atlantic Beach, stands as a living tribute to Randall's life and service. The engraved marker, donated by the Jacksonville Semper Fi Society and the Hansen family, honors his memory and serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing need to address and raise awareness of veteran suicide.

The Beaches Veterans Memorial Park Committee and the City of Atlantic Beach remain committed to honoring our fallen and supporting those who continue to bear the burdens of war. If you’re a veteran in crisis or concerned about one, connect with our caring, qualified Veterans Crisis Line responders for confidential help. Many of them are veterans themselves. This service is private, free, and available 24/7.

Here’s how you can connect with a Veterans Crisis Line responder, anytime, day or night:

Call 988 and select 1.
Text 838255.
Chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat.
If you have hearing loss, call TTY: 800-799-4889.

You can also take these actions:

Call 911.
Go to the nearest emergency room.
Go directly to your nearest VA medical center. It doesn’t matter what your discharge status is or if you’re enrolled in VA health care.
Find your nearest VA medical center

For additional information, visit www.mentalhealth.va.gov/get-help.

World War II Veteran Memorial at Bull Park

The World War II Veteran Memorial at Bull Memorial Park in Atlantic Beach, Florida. This memorial commemorates four heroes from the Atlantic Beach area who were killed during World War II: John J. "Jack" Ahern Jr., Richard Bull, Robert B. David, and Solomon C. Sturdivant.

Wreaths Across America

Wreaths Across America is a national initiative dedicated to remembering fallen veterans, honoring those who serve, and teaching the next generation the value of freedom. On National Wreaths Across America Day, ceremonies are held and wreaths are placed on the graves or memorial markers of U.S. military veterans. In Atlantic Beach, this mission is carried out by the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Jean Ribault chapter at Beaches Memorial Park cemetery at 1500 Main St. DAR’s involvement aligns perfectly with the organization’s core objectives: historic preservation, education, and patriotism. The City of Atlantic Beach assists DAR with the event. Click here to sponsor a wreath, volunteer, or for more information.

National Wreaths Across America Day: The main event happens annually on National Wreaths Across America Day. In 2025, this will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, December 13, with wreath placement immediately following the ceremony. The core Wreaths Across America mission of “Remember, Honor, Teach” is central to the Atlantic Beach effort. The annual ceremonies not only remember those who served but also educate the public, especially younger generations, about the sacrifices made for freedom.
Community Involvement:The program relies heavily on community support.
- Sponsorship: Individuals and groups can sponsor wreaths to be placed on veterans' memorials. Each sponsored wreath ensures a fresh balsam wreath, hand-tied with a red velvet bow, is placed.
- Volunteering: Volunteers are crucial for the success of the event. They participate in the ceremony and the act of placing the wreaths. It's a powerful experience, as volunteers are encouraged to say the name of the veteran aloud when placing a wreath, ensuring their legacy is not forgotten.
- Fundraising: Local organizations and businesses often hold fundraisers to support the purchase of wreaths. For instance, Culhane's Irish Pub has hosted events to raise funds for wreaths to be placed at Beaches Memorial Park cemetery.

U.S. Military Heroes from Atlantic Beach

This list isn't all-inclusive; there are too many to honor. Rather, it is a compilation of some of those who have been publicly and permanently honored within our community, serving as enduring reminders of their sacrifice and service.

John J. "Jack" Ahern, Jr.

Second Lieutenant and pilot in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II.
On December 16, 1944, during a bombing mission out of England, his B-17 Flying Fortress experienced engine failure. He bravely ordered his crew to bail out, saving their lives, and then steered the fully armed aircraft away from a small village in Bozeat, England, to prevent a disaster. He was killed when the plane crashed.
Sign of Honor at Ocean Boulevard and Ahern Street (named after John Ahern).
There is a memorial to him in Bozeat, England.
Read more here.

Richard Bull

Lieutenant Junior Grade and pilot in the U.S. Navy during World War II.
Enlisted in 1938 and earned his wings in 1939. He was assigned to Patrol Squadron 22 and took part in reconnaissance flights in the East Indies.
Killed on February 5, 1942, during a reconnaissance flight near the island of Ambon, when his plane was shot down by enemy fighters. He was posthumously awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.
Richard Bull Memorial Park in Atlantic Beach is dedicated in his memory. His father, Harcourt Bull Sr., was the first mayor of Atlantic Beach.

Thomas R. Cross

A prominent U.S. Army figure, Col. Cross was a distinguished leader in World War II, serving with all five airborne divisions: the 82nd, 101st, 17th, 13th, and 11th. In Operation Dragoon, the 1944 Allied invasion of Southern France, Cross parachuted in with the 2nd Battalion, 517th Parachute Infantry Regiment (PIR). Despite breaking his ankle during the jump, he bravely led his 200 paratroopers to their objective. He later fought in the Battle of the Bulge, where he was severely wounded. Upon recovery, he commanded the 3rd Battalion, 517th PIR, and the 1st and 3rd Battalions, 505th PIR. In 1948, he was assigned to Japan with the 11th Airborne Division. As the 11th's Parachute Maintenance Officer, he designed the U.S. Army Parachute Rigger Badge to "identify rigger personnel at critical locations." His bravery and contributions led to his induction into the U.S. Army Parachute Rigger Hall of Fame, which was later named in his honor. Tom continued to receive challenging assignments, inspiring generations of paratroopers and leaving a lasting impact on the organization. He later commanded the U.S. Army Basic Training Center at Fort Bragg, N.C. He died in 2020 and was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery.

Robert B. David

Staff Sergeant in the U.S. Army, serving with the 509th Parachute Infantry Battalion during World War II.
Born in Jacksonville, Fla., and moved to Atlantic Beach. He enlisted in 1941 and served in various campaigns, including Algeria-French Morocco, Tunisia, Naples-Foggia, and Southern France. He was wounded in action and received numerous awards, including the Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters.
Reported Missing in Action on August 15, 1944.
Sign of Honor at Seminole Road and David Avenue (named after Robert David).
Read more here.

Craig Dunning

The City’s measures to pay tribute to American heroes from Atlantic Beach include a mayoral proclamation honoring late Atlantic Beach’resident Craig L. Dunning, whose acts of bravery in the Vietnam War earned him Purple Heart medals for being wounded as a result of an act of an opposing armed force; Silver Star medals for gallantry in action; and Bronze Star medals for heroic or meritorious achievement or service in a combat zone. Craig’s tragic-yet-inspiring life story is riveting and is sure to tug at your heart; we encourage all Atlantic Beach residents to learn all about him at www.coab.us/craigdunning.

Leroy Everett

The Atlantic Beach community celebrated a fallen native son with a special event on Feb. 15, 2020, which was proclaimed "Leroy Everett Day". In August 2019, Everett’s hometown honored him as such when the Atlantic Beach City Commission unanimously adopted a resolution naming the main road in Dutton Island Preserve “U.S. Army SFC Leroy Everett Memorial Parkway.” Everett played as a child and practiced for high school swim meets at Dutton Island. On Dec. 19, 1967, a UH-1D from the 162nd Assault Helicopter Company sustained engine failure at an altitude of 200 feet during takeoff from Phouc Vinh Airfield loaded with troops for a practice combat assault. The tail boom struck trees and separated from the aircraft, and the main cabin hit the ground and turned over, burning on impact. Engine loss was due to fatigue failure of a blade in the turbine wheel. All 10 people aboard the helicopter suffered fatal injuries, including Everett. Everett is forever honored on Panel 32E, Line 21 of the Vietnam Memorial Wall. Other Atlantic Beach natives who lost their lives serving their country had previously been honored with street and park namings; Everett is the first African-American to receive such an honor in the city. He is also memorialized with a sign of honor at Dutton Island Road and Mealy Street; Atlantic Beach-based RMP VetCare Ministry, which was established to support local veterans and their families, sponsored the sign's purchase and the City's purchase of a "Purple Heart City" street sign. Read more at www.coab.us/leroyeverett.

Captain John Frederick Lorraine Jr.

US Air Force Captain John Frederick Lorraine Jr. was killed on January 28, 1964, when Soviet MiG-19s shot down his USAF T-39A jet during a routine training flight in West Germany. He was accompanied by two student pilots, both of whom also perished. In honor of his sacrifice, the City of Atlantic Beach established the "Captain Fred Lorraine Memorial Honor Roll" with Resolution #67-12, passed on October 23, 1967. This perpetual memorial honors Atlantic Beach residents currently serving in the Armed Forces, ensuring their legacy is forever remembered in the city's meeting chambers.

Duane St. John

Purple Heart recipient who resides in Atlantic Beach.
Served during the Korean War and was wounded by enemy forces at the Battle of Chosin Reservoir.

Richard A. "Dick" Stratton

U.S. Navy captain, member of the World Famous Golden Dragons, and a Vietnam War hero.
During his assignment to VA-192 at NAS Lemoore, LCDR Stratton deployed to Southeast Asia with CVW-19 aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ticonderoga from June 1966 until he was shot down and forced to eject over North Vietnam.
He was taken as a Prisoner of War on January 5, 1967. After spending 2,251 days in captivity, and enduring inhumane treatment including torture, CDR Stratton was released during Operation Homecoming on March 4, 1973.
He was awarded the Silver Star for Valor, Purple Heart, and P.O.W. medal among many other military decorations and awards for his conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while imprisoned by the North Vietnamese.
Following his homecoming, Dick held various positions and commands across the country.. He ended his career on July 1, 1986 as the Director of the Naval Academy Preparatory School, Newport, Rhode Island. Upon retirement from the Navy, Dick practiced as a clinical social worker, specializing in psychological trauma and addictions. He also served as President of NAM-POWs from 1983 to 1985, and was Chairman of the Department of Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee on Prisoners of War from 1989 to 1995. He stayed active in many veteran organizations ensuring their voices continued to be heard and their legacies honored.
Died on Jan. 18, 2025

Solomon C. Sturdivant

Private First Class in the U.S. Army during World War II, serving as a member of the 231st American Antiaircraft Artillery Searchlight Battalion.
Drafted while residing in Atlantic Beach and was killed in action in France on March 5, 1945.
He is buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
Sign of Honor at Sherry Drive and Sturdivant Avenue (named after Solomon Sturdivant).

Rexwood S. Thames Jr. and James F. Thames

Brothers from Atlantic Beach who heroically served the nation during the Vietnam War.
Rexwood flew more than 125 successful combat missions and was killed shortly after returning home from his initial tour in Vietnam
James, a highly decorated Navy Seal, was killed in action during a combat mission against enemy forces.
Signs of Honor at Second Street and Sherry Drive (Rexwood) and Beach Avenue and Ahern Street (James).

Feedback

Do you have any suggestions on additional ways to memorialize and honor American heroes from Atlantic Beach? If so, email info@coab.us or all (904) 247-5804.