PORT ST. LUCIE | Under threat of a tornado and excessive winds, Treasure Coast area Knights of Columbus hosted a “Vets for the Mets” outing March 16, 2026, at Clover Field in Port St. Lucie. Excitement was in the air along with windy conditions that brought cooler temps near sunset.
“There were a lot of angels keeping us safe,” said Pete Overhuls, state officer and District 63 deputy for seven Knights of Columbus councils in Indian River, St. Lucie and Martin counties.
The spirit of St. Patrick’s Day was on tap for the 6:10 p.m. spring training game between the New York Mets and the Washington Nationals, part of Major League Baseball’s National League East Division.
The event was the inspiration of fellow Knight Stephen Micelotta, who wondered last year if there was something the Knights could do for military veterans that was fun. What about a baseball game? The idea was a hit.
As the details were planned, more Knights joined the team, and the 2025 game was set in motion, but the only catch was how to fund it. Community spirit led the way. Tickets for the left-field seating, buffet meal (“home plate” style), and cold drinks sold out with the help of a donation from each council and sponsorship from Aycock Funeral Home. It was game on.
Micelotta had developed a fond relationship with 98-year-old World War II veteran Calvin “Cal” Heathman, the first resident of the Ardie R. Copas State Veterans’ Nursing Home. The 120-bed skilled-care facility in Port St. Lucie, where adult male and female veterans have access to advanced methods of care, is named after a Fort Pierce native son, Army Spc. 4 Ardie Ray Copas, who received numerous medals and awards, including a posthumous Medal of Honor for heroism. In 1970, he was killed in action in Cambodia at age 19.
Built on a 28-acre parcel in Tradition, St. Lucie County partnered with city, state and federal agencies to make the project a reality. Launched in 2022, the facility offers short-term rehab and long-term care and is one of only eight such homes in the state managed by the Department of Veteran Affairs. Currently, there is a waiting list. Last Christmas, the Knights brought a children’s choir to inspire those without family companionship.
Heathman, born in 1927, had double duty in the military, enlisting first in the Navy during World War II. After his stint, he was drafted by the Army during the Korean conflict. Today, he spends most of his time as a self-taught artist, working in pastels and best known for painting portraits for each resident, 188 thus far, with three currently in the works. He has completed two collage posters for the America 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence this July 4.
It was Micelotta who tapped Heathman to throw out the first pitch last year. “He liked it so much he wanted to do it again this year. I love spending time with Cal, to hear his stories.” Last year, Heathman was presented a flag during the pre-game introductions.
“There’s a funny story to that,” said Jim Naples, Knights of Columbus district deputy director. When Heathman was invited to throw out the first pitch, “he said, ‘I’m not worried about next year (2026).’ He was planning ahead to 2027. ‘I’ll be 100!’ (in November 2027).”
The tenets of being a Knight are three fundamental steps: charity, unity and fraternity. The objective of the Fourth Degree is an emphasis on patriotism. When it comes to recruiting members, leadership by example is the model. “I was drafted in and influenced by friends,” said Ernesto Amador of St. Bernadette Parish. “I’m glad I did join. It enriches life by giving back. Community work, camaraderie, teamwork all bring everyone closer to God.”
Founded in 1882 by Blessed Father Michael McGivney and headquartered in New Haven, Connecticut, the Knights of Columbus have left their mark in many communities through acts of service and by example. Above all, the men challenge each other to grow their faith and use it for the good of others.
Many Third- and Fourth-Degree Knights from parishes in St. Lucie County brought wives or guests to the March 16 game. A few snowbird Knights were among the fans. When asked, most men said they were drawn to the organization for its accountability, unity and acts of charity. Some at the game pitched in as ushers, assisting disabled veterans. A few new members were recruited. Everyone helped sell tickets.
John Johnson, who attended last year, snapped photos and was happy that the storms missed the park. “We have beautiful weather. Someone was praying.”
For more information on the Knights of Columbus, visit www.kofc.org. Watch a Knights video at https://youtu.be/HJosnqAFWwg.
