Memorial Day Weekend: History, Heroes, a Dance That Refuses to Die
- Vero Minute
- May 27
- 3 min read
Vero Beach’s Memorial Day observances reflect a deep commitment to those who secure our freedoms. These deliberate acts of recognition serve to uphold the ongoing respect and ethos of honor for the military long cherished within our community.
Friday Night: The Heritage Center USO Dance – And How Millie Bunnell Saved a Vintage Gem
The Memorial Day weekend in Vero Beach kicked off with a bang (and a swing) on Friday night at the Heritage Center, the most stunning piece of 1935 architecture that almost met a tragic fate — being turned into a parking lot. Yes, you read that right. Back in the 1960s, when disco was still a decade away and people apparently thought parking lots were more valuable than history, the Heritage Center was on the chopping block. Enter Millie Bunnell, part-time history superhero and full-time champion of all things vintage. Millie, along with the Indian River County Historical Society, staged a rescue mission not too dissimilar to Jackie O’s saving of Grand Central Station. Today, the Heritage Center is celebrated not only for its remarkable architectural features — graceful curves, classic lines, and period details that capture the elegance and optimism of its era — but as a keeper of history, and a place where the community’s spirit and civic pride continue to thrive.
This year’s event added extra significance as part of the community’s centennial celebration — a full century since the founding of Indian River County. If these walls could talk, they would recount generations of gatherings: citrus workers, pioneering families, and servicemembers from the nearby naval air station all mingling under the same roof. During World War II, the Heritage Center buzzed with USO dances and community events. The centennial serves as a timely reminder of this landmark’s ongoing role.
Beyond its classic charm, the Heritage Center is home to the Citrus Museum, a tribute to the industry that put Indian River County on the map. The museum honors not only the citrus growers but also the pioneering families whose hard work and vision shaped the region’s identity. To learn more about the Heritage Center’s history, the Citrus Museum, or to support ongoing upgrades and preservation efforts, visit www.heritagecenter.org. Your involvement helps ensure that this architectural treasure—and the stories of citrus and pioneering families—remains a living part of our community forever. Click here to read County Administrator John Titkanich's remarks.
Monday: Veterans Memorial Island Sanctuary – Congressman Mike Haridopolos and Flags for the Centenarians
Fast forward to Monday, where the Veterans Memorial Island Sanctuary became the stage for a moving ceremony. Congressman Mike Haridopolos took center stage to honor six World War II veterans (Dan Emerson, Harold Granitur, Pat Guggino, Bill Keegan, Clarence “Korky” Korker, and Dallas Stevens) -- each over 100 years old— and a testament to the Greatest Generation’s stamina and spirit. Each centenarian was presented with an American flag flown over the U.S. Capitol, a gesture that had the crowd—veterans, families, civic leaders, and locals alike—rising to their feet.
The ceremony also featured a deeply emotional moment as the Army Commendation Medal with Valor was posthumously awarded to Sgt. Stephen Wiggins, a Vero Beach native and Vietnam War hero. His sister, who was just a student at Vero Beach High School when she learned of his sacrifice, accepted the medal on his behalf. The event took place at the brand-new World War II Tribute, a polished granite stage that now anchors the sanctuary and marks the first Memorial Day observance from this exquisite platform.
Vero Beach Museum of Art Expands Free Access for Military and Veterans—Art for All Who Serve
The Vero Beach Museum of Art offers free admission to active-duty military personnel and their families through Labor Day as part of the Blue Star Museums program. And U.S. military veterans receive free admission year-round and a 15% discount on classes and workshops.
For more information, visit:https://www.vbmuseum.org
