Boots on the Beach at Riomar Unites Vero for Veterans
- Vero Minute
- Sep 29
- 3 min read
Vero Beach rallied at Riomar Golf Club for the annual Boots on the Beach gala to raise funds and awareness for programs available to our community's veterans -- nearly 12% of our population, which is a figure notably higher than the state average for Florida. If you have a veteran in your life, this national organization provides resources you truly don't want to miss.
While the organization's mission is national in scope, Saint Edward's School grad and CEO Shelly Richardson Kirkland lives right here in Vero Beach.
Shelly and hosts Tori and Andrew Barnett, Jean and Jim Ueltschi, alongside local board and committee members pulled out all the stops.
It was amazing to see Saint Edward's School alumni out in force -- that kind of turnout reflects just how strongly Saint Edward’s instills the spirit of giving back, both at school and in the wider Vero Beach community. And underscores the school’s mission of inspiring compassionate, engaged citizens who make a meaningful impact wherever they gather.
Navy SEAL Karl “Gus” Gustavson, who served 22 years—including time with SEAL Team Six—was our keynote for the evening. Gus kept things grounded and relatable, sharing stories about leadership, facing tough moments, and what real teamwork looks like.
He projected on the screen a poster his father hung in his childhood bedroom that he shared with his brother -- “He Ain’t Heavy, Father, He’s m’ Brother!”—a quiet hint at what would later define his life. Gus’s words and that image gently reminded us all that sometimes the beliefs that guide us are there from the very beginning.
Boot Campaign operates two key programs.
Their Health & Wellness Program provides personalized treatment for service-connected PTSD, traumatic brain injury, trauma-based insomnia, chronic pain, and self-medication. Learn more about the Health & Wellness program here.
The Seasons of Service Program delivers curated gifts and services to veteran families during difficult times, alleviating stress and financial burdens. Learn more about the Seasons of Service program here.
Shelly opened the evening by reflecting on challenging times in America. "We've witnessed horrific acts of violence. We've marked the anniversary of a day that changed our nation forever. And we've seen a global spotlight shine on something we talk about every day at Boot Campaign: The critical importance of mental health."
In moments of division, Kirkland emphasized Boot Campaign's clear mission to "unite Americans to honor and restore veterans' lives through individualized care." She challenged attendees to consider how they could be part of uniting America, reminding them that healing and lasting change start when communities come together—just like veterans did while serving.
Kirkland's journey began when she met Iraq and Afghanistan veterans whose struggles changed her perspective. More than two dozen St. Edward's alumni supported their classmate's mission, showing how the school's foundation of service continues inspiring graduates. You can read more about Kirkland in this Saint Edward's alumni spotlight article here.
Since 2009, Boot Campaign has served more than 12,000 veterans and families at no cost. With event costs fully underwritten, every dollar raised goes directly to helping veterans heal.
As Gustavson reminded attendees, Boot Campaign delivers a simple message: "We've got you."
For more information about Boot Campaign's programs and services, visit the Boot Campaign website here.
