VFW holds Memorial Day festivities.
By: Rebecca Tokarz
Nearly 40 South Brunswick residents closed their umbrellas and shook the excess raindrops from their jackets as they rushed into the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9111 in Kendall Park on Monday morning to escape the downpour and pay tribute to military men and women.
With the sound of rain pelting against the rooftop of the VFW building serving as background music, veterans said the rain was a fitting way to memorialize those lost in battle.
"A part of me wishes we were standing outside in the rain," South Brunswick Councilman Ted Van Hessen said, adding that it would give everyone a sense of what it was like for soldiers sloshing through trenches and mud.
Mr. Van Hessen, who served in the Army after the Vietnam War, recalled hearing horrifying tales of those who served in the jungle, showing him that freedom is not always pleasant and comes with a price tag.
"Freedom is not free and it’s not comfortable and rarely is it pleasant," he said. "Not only do we remember the people who served and their hardships, we remember the families of those who gave up their lives."
Mr. Van Hessen’s comments were part of a morning-long remembrance celebration throughout the township to honor those lost during the country’s many wars and military conflicts.
During the ceremony, various members of the VFW, the Ladies Auxiliary, the clergy and members of the Township Council paid tribute to the fallen soldiers.
Following the ceremony at the VFW, veterans and their families met at American Legion Post 401 on Major Road for a short service with musical accompaniment from the South Brunswick High School band, followed by hot refreshments.
The observances were scheduled to culminate at the Municipal Building, but that was cancelled due to the weather.
Regardless of the location, veterans took time to remember the efforts and commitment of friends and fellow soldiers lost in battle.
"It’s a day to honor the living and the deceased soldiers who gave us our freedom," VFW member and World War II veteran Vic Kovacs said.
Mr. Kovacs served in World War II and lost a portion of his thumb during combat. Despite the injury, Mr. Kovacs looks on the bright side of things saying that at least he can still use his thumb.
Mr. Kovacs said younger generations are quick to forget the significance of Memorial Day because the wars and soldiers’ contributions are not enforced in classrooms.
"Youngsters don’t know much about the wars kids should learn more in school," Mr. Kovacs said.
World War II veteran and VFW Historian Al Kady said veterans who lost their lives should not be forgotten the rest of the year and remembered only on Veterans Day and Memorial Day.
"They have given their all. We have brave men and women fighting for our freedom," Mr. Kady said. "We should honor them everyday, not just today."
Regardless of whether it’s Memorial Day or not, Americans should pay homage to veterans and recognize their contributions to society, veterans said.
It doesn’t take much to make a veteran feel appreciated, Mr. Kady said.
"If you see a vet, just go up to them, shake their hand and say thanks. They’ll understand what you mean," Mr. Kady said.
Korean War veteran and American Legion member Hank DeGroff used the memorial ceremony at the Legion to reflect on the deaths of two classmates who fought along aside him in the war.
"This day is extra special for me because I have two classmates who were killed during the Korean War," Mr. DeGroff said.
Mr. DeGroff said that as the years go by, the memories of war don’t fade, although society tends to forget.
"It seems like they’ve turned it into a holiday not a memorial day," he said. "As you get older, you hope they keep up the tradition."
With many veterans getting up in age, Mr. DeGroff said its distressing to see so many younger members of the armed forces elect to stay away from organizations like the Legion or VFW.
"It’s hard to get youngsters to get into the organization. I want to get names of veterans who are in the service now and get them involved," he said.
While it may be difficult to get younger members of the armed forces involved in veteran organizations, one handful of teens recognized the efforts and sacrifices of local veterans.
"It’s a big day for all Americans," said 14-year-old Andrew Hereach of Boy Scout Troop 10.
Members of the troop said they were honored to attend the services held at the American Legion Post because it was their chance to honor those who have worked to keep American citizens free.
"We needed to show our support considering the conflicts that are going on overseas," said 17-year-old Chris Williams. "This gives us the chance to show our appreciation for sacrifices made in the past and those that continue today."
For others, the service was an opportunity to reflect on the past commitment of soldiers and those currently serving in the Middle East.
"I thought I should be here and honor these veterans and think about the people overseas," said 16-year-old Wayne Kuehner.

