New Memorial Reefs Honor Fallen Heroes Off Florida Coast

New Memorial Reefs Honor Fallen Heroes Off Florida Coast

In the shimmering waters off Dog Island, Florida, two remarkable memorial reefs stand as tributes to individuals who left an indelible mark on their communities. On August 13, 2023, the Carl Enis Memorial Reef was officially created, honoring Staff Sergeant Carl Enis, a dedicated U.S. Air Force specialist tragically killed in a helicopter crash in Iraq on March 15, 2018, at the age of 31. Enis’s passion for saltwater fishing and spearfishing inspired the design of the reef, which consists of seven massive pyramid-shaped concrete units, each towering 15 feet and weighing over 30,000 pounds. This impressive addition nearly doubles the size of an existing reef in the area.

The memorial project was organized by the Organization for Artificial Reefs (OAR) and executed by marine contractor Walter Marine. Hundreds of family, friends, and fellow service members gathered for a ceremony to commemorate Enis on what would have been his 32nd birthday. They came together to celebrate a man remembered for his humility, athleticism, and optimism. In his honor, the ceremony featured hunting stories and fond memories shared among friends, alongside a heartfelt tribute to his wife, Angela Drzewiecki, whom he married in 2012.

Honoring a Legacy

Enis’s story is captivating, having moved to Tallahassee in 2004 to study at Florida State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in environmental science and later, a Master of Business Administration in 2017. His adventurous spirit took him to Tanzania, working as a safari guide during summer breaks, where he learned Swahili and even faced unexpected encounters with wildlife. His life was guided by the pararescueman’s credo: “These things we do so others may live,” a testament to his dedication to service and community.

Just a quarter-mile from the Enis reef, another memorial was established for William „Bill“ Mickler, a beloved figure and dedicated OAR volunteer. Mickler was not only an FSU alum but also a retired officer with the Florida Department of Transportation. This shows how intertwined these memorials are with the fabric of the local community, honoring those who have served and contributed significantly.

A Growing Legacy

The memorial efforts did not stop there. The Buddy Ward Memorial Reef was also expanded to include 33 new reef units dedicated to Olan „Buddy“ Ward, a significant figure in Apalachicola’s seafood industry. Together, these projects collectively cost $202,000, funded by various organizations and private contributions, reflecting a community deeply committed to remembering their own.

For those looking to fish in the area, these new reefs have created exciting hotspots near Apalachicola and Carrabelle—complete with listed GPS coordinates for easy navigation. This combination of honoring fallen heroes and boosting local marine life showcases a beautiful intersection of remembrance and community enrichment.

The efforts by OAR and the Apalachicola Artificial Reef Association (AARA) highlight the power of community action, as these organizations rely heavily on volunteer support to bring their visions to life. They represent not just memorials, but also thriving ecosystems that foster local fisheries and enhance the recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

In a world sometimes overwhelmed by challenges, there’s something to be said for how a community can unite to create lasting memories. Such projects remind us that while the waters may ebb and flow, the legacies of those we’ve lost remain anchored in our hearts and our seas.