Veterans Memorial Park

Park Overview

Nestled in Port St. Lucie, Florida, Veterans Memorial Park spans a modest 2.5 acres but carries immense significance. Opened in 1995, this special place honors those who served in our military with a thoughtful pentagon-shaped layout - each of the five points representing a different branch of the U.S. armed forces, complete with its own flag and emblems.

Walking through this park feels different from your typical recreational space. There's a certain calmness here - shaded pathways, soft lighting for evening visits, and an atmosphere that naturally invites reflection and respect for military service members.

Memorial Features

At the heart of the park stands the pentagon-shaped memorial with its flags and military branch emblems proudly displayed. History unfolds around you as you explore memorials commemorating service from the Revolutionary War all the way through World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

The Purple Heart memorial offers a poignant tribute to those wounded or killed while serving. In 2016, the park added the Gold Star Families Memorial Monument - a touching acknowledgment of the families who've lost loved ones in military service.

One of the newest and most striking additions came in April 2022: a memorial honoring veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars. Crafted from 19,000 pounds of black granite imported from India, it's the first memorial in Florida that recognizes individual military personnel lost in these conflicts. Its design draws inspiration from the National Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., creating a powerful space for remembrance.

Visitor Experience

With 12 benches scattered around the grounds, the park invites you to sit and reflect. The paved walkways make the entire space accessible, while thoughtful lighting ensures you can visit even after sunset.

Many people appreciate the walking paths for a contemplative stroll through military history. If you're looking for a longer walk, there's a 2-mile sidewalk outside the park that's well-suited for walking, jogging, or running.

Educational Value

Taking a walk through Veterans Memorial Park is like stepping through a timeline of American military history. Each memorial has been carefully designed to inspire genuine respect and remembrance, making this both a park and a place where history feels present and personal, ideal for both education and quiet reflection.

Facilities

You'll discover clean restrooms available for your convenience. Parking is plentiful, including handicapped spaces, ensuring the memorial is accessible to everyone who wishes to visit.

Special Events

The park comes alive with special ceremonies on Memorial Day and Veterans Day. These community gatherings feature presentations, stories, and often music performed by a full orchestra. These events create meaningful opportunities to come together and honor the service and sacrifice of military members past and present.