South Brunswick pays tribute to those who have served in the nation’s armed forces.
By: Joseph Harvie
Veterans of the armed forces were honored Friday in a ceremony that included the laying of wreaths around the township’s Veterans Memorial at the Municipal Building.
Dozens of spectators, many wearing jackets representing the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines, attended the commemoration at 11 a.m., which was presented by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 9111, and the American Legion, Post 401.
The Rev. John Maltby of Miller Memorial Presbyterian Church in Monmouth Junction, and Rabbi Levi Azimov of Chabad of South Brunswick on Riva Avenue opened the event with prayers dedicated to those now serving in the armed forces, those who have served in the past, and those who have lost their lives fighting for the United States.
After the prayers and speeches, four wreathes, carried by representatives of the U.S. Air Force, Army, Navy and Marines, were laid around the township’s memorial. Three shots were fired in memory of those who lost their lives in battle.
Al Kady, commander of VFW, Post 9111, said he was happy about the number of people who were at the ceremony. He said it was nice to see that the residents showed up despite the brisk weather.
"I think it was good," Mr. Kady said. "The attendance was good, but we didn’t have the band. We just want to thank everyone for coming."
Mayor Frank Gambatese encouraged those in attendance to say a prayer for the men and women serving in the armed forces overseas. He said they are fighting to preserve the freedoms of being an American.
"It is with their help that America can continue to flourish," Mayor Gambatese said. "We have a government that respects different religions, respects different cultures and respects different ideas."
Former Superintendent of Schools Sam Stewart recited the lyrics of the Lee Greenwood tune "God Bless the USA," often referred to as "proud to be an American."
"I’m proud to be an American, where at least I know I’m free," Dr. Stewart recited. "And I won’t forget the men who died who gave that right to me. And I gladly stand up next to you and defend her still today, ’cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land, God bless the USA."
Councilman Joe Camarota said honoring veterans is important. He thanked the American Legion and the VFW for setting up the ceremony and said they should be proud of the work they did not only while they were in the service but also for what they do in town.
"This is a town that honors our veterans and you do a great job working in the community," Mr. Camarota said.

