Vero Beach advisory committee approves minutes, confirms cenotaph placement and previews community events

The Veterans Memorial Island Sanctuary Advisory Committee approved the minutes of its March 4 and April 1, 2026 meetings unanimously and confirmed placement of a cenotaph for Lance Corporal Chase D. Stephenson at the June 3 meeting in Vero Beach.

Chairman John Michael Matthews moved to approve the March 4 minutes with a correction changing the phrase "War Monument" to "Vietnam War Memorial." Michelle Dale seconded, and the committee approved the corrected March 4 minutes unanimously. Matthews then moved to approve the April 1 minutes; Vice Chairman Curtis Paulisin seconded and the committee approved them unanimously.

Matthews confirmed that the family of Lance Corporal Chase D. Stephenson has not requested a ceremony following placement of his cenotaph on the Island.

Tony Young recapped the Memorial Day ceremony, noting strong participation, acknowledgment of The Fallen and use of the ship's bell for each conflict; he thanked volunteers Boots on the Ground and Next Generation and noted the continued involvement of high school buglers. Young also reported on veterans honored in June; the report is on file with the City Clerk.

Under chairman’s matters, Matthews reported plans to name a street in recognition of Sergeant Sylvester McIntosh, a Vero Beach Purple Heart and Silver Star recipient, and provided a brief update on USA All Day/250th Celebration parade preparations and a forthcoming parade walk-through. Member Michelle Dale noted veteran events including Bill Keegan’s 102nd birthday celebration on June 1 at American Legion Post 39 and invited the public to a Veterans Day Walkathon on Nov. 1, 2026 at 9:30 a.m. at Riverside Park.

The committee set its next meeting for July 1, 2026 at 9:30 a.m. in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting adjourned at 10:27 a.m.