This dive site, the Circle of Heroes Memorial, is the first underwater military veterans memorial globally, dedicated on August 5, 2019. Located 10 miles off Dunedin Beach, Florida, in the Gulf of Mexico, it features 12 six-foot-tall statues at a depth of 40 feet (12 meters), serving as a unique and poignant underwater landmark. Divers navigate around the circular arrangement of statues, honoring veterans.
The memorial acts as an artificial reef, attracting typical Gulf of Mexico Caribbean fish species. Divers can expect to see stingrays, various snapper species, triggerfish, and hogfish. There's also a possibility of encountering sandbar, blacknose, and bonnethead sharks, adding an exciting dimension to the marine life observations.
The best time to visit this site is generally during calmer weather conditions for optimal visibility and boat access. It's a highlight for those seeking a unique dive experience combining memorial exploration with marine life encounters. The relatively shallow depths make it ideal for both scuba divers and freedivers, offering a poignant and accessible underwater tribute.
