The MOAA Indian River Chapter Board of Directors
unanimously voted to take on the role of project manager for a new
monument to be erected on Veterans Memorial Island Sanctuary in honor of those who served
in World War I. Sometimes called "The War to End All Wars," it was
supposed to change relationships between nations --a prediction not
fulfilled. However, it did change the nature of war for the next century
by introducing aerial, armored and chemical warfare.
Pictured here is the Korean War Monument at the Sanctuary.
The monument design, which is still in the conceptual
stage, will chronicle key aspects of the conflict and complement the
Island's other memorials. Some ideas being considered include an
inscription of the iconic poem, "In Flanders Field" and a red poppy.
The plan is to unveil the monument as part of the overall
Veterans Day ceremony on November 21, 2021. Originally called
Remembrance Day, it was declared a national holiday to commemorate the
end of the fighting that ceased at the 11th hour on the 11th day of the
11th month.
The construction and placement of the monument have
already been approved by the Veterans Memorial Island Sanctuary Committee and the
City of Vero Beach. The final design and cost will also be subject to
their approval.
Col. Carlos Halcomb and Col. Mike DiScipio, the lead project managers, welcome your ideas and suggestions. You can send them to
pavejackal@yahoo.com.
Progress reports will be published periodically, as well as the final design.