The Vero Beach community gathered at Veterans Memorial Island Sanctuary to pay tribute to generations of American heroes who gave their lives in service to the country during the annual Memorial Day ceremony. Hosted by the Indian River Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America, U.S. Rep. Mike Haridopolos was this year’s keynote speaker. The ceremony was steeped in reverence and tradition, including patriotic music played by the Vero Beach High School Band, the placing of the wreath, bagpipes, the ringing of the ship’s bell, a rifle salute, and the final notes of “Taps,” all meant to honor the fallen with deep gratitude. World War II Veterans Bill Keegan, Clarence “Korky” Korker and Harold Granitur each received American flags that had been flown over the Nation’s Capital to celebrate their status as centenarians. “It is an honor to be here today as we gather to honor the men and women who gave everything for our country. As your congressman, it means a great deal to me to be surrounded by veterans, service members and fellow citizens who know that freedom is not free and that it comes at a cost,” said Haridopolos. He reiterated the importance of maintaining a strong military, echoing President Ronald Reagan’s “peace through strength” philosophy as a deterrent from aggression. “Memorial Day is about honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The heroes who stepped forward to serve, put on the uniform, and gave their lives to protect the country we all love dearly,” said Haridopolos, before asking the Gold Star Families, those often-forgotten heroes who have lost family members, to stand. Sgt. Stephan M. Wiggins, a Vero Beach native who was killed in action on March 30, 1968, during the Vietnam War, was posthumously awarded the Army Commendation Medal with “V” Device (for valor), honoring his bravery and sacrifice. The medal was made possible by Harvey Arnold, who made sure that his friend wasn’t forgotten. As he recounted the hurdles he needed to go through to get Wiggins the accolades he deserved, it became clear that it was nothing short of a miracle that it happened at all. The requirements included the endorsement of a surviving officer, a narrative of the events, and two eyewitnesses – no small feat given that 57 years have passed. “Stephan was my high school hero. Today, Stephan is our nation’s hero,” said Arnold. “If this doesn’t make you proud of being someone who loves our country, check your fuel tank,” said retired Army Col. Tony Young. <em>Photos by Joshua Kodis</em> [gallery ids="218717,218718,218719,218720,218721,218722,218723,218724,218725,218726,218727,218728,218729,218730,218731,218732,218733,218734,218735,218736,218737,218738,218739,218740,218741,218742"]