A Medal of Honor Tribute Dinner took place at the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center in Merritt Island on March 13, 2026. The event featured Vietnam War recipient Melvin Morris, who received the nation’s highest military decoration for valor during his service. Three other Medal of Honor recipients attended a separate meet and greet and classic car show at the center’s new amphitheater later that day but could not join the dinner due to scheduling conflicts. The dinner followed a Medal of Honor 5K Run & Walk earlier in the day, drawing hundreds of participants and spectators.
Monica Key performed the National Anthem at the dinner, which included combat-wounded veterans and local community leaders. Among the attendees were Rosemary and Carlos Evans, co-founders of the Touching Lives Leaving Prints Foundation, a faith-based outreach program for veterans. Carlos, a U.S. Marine, lost both legs and a hand during his fourth deployment. The Evanses have worked with dozens of veterans in Brevard County through their foundation, providing mentorship and support.
The event highlighted the sacrifices of veterans, with Morris sharing stories of his service during the Vietnam War. He spoke briefly to attendees before retreating to a private area of the memorial center. Organizers said the dinner aimed to connect veterans with local resources and foster a sense of community. The amphitheater, which opened in late 2025, hosted the meet and greet and car show, featuring vintage vehicles from across the region.
The 5K Run & Walk, held on the same day, included participants from throughout Brevard County. Race organizers reported strong turnout, with many runners wearing military-themed gear. The event raised funds for veteran support programs, including the Touching Lives Leaving Prints Foundation. No other Medal of Honor recipients attended the dinner, but organizers said they hope to expand the event in future years to include more veterans and their families.