LAWRENCE : LTTER TO THE EDITOR

Hand march lauded

Carolyn Immordino MacLeod, Kent, Conn.
   On behalf of the family of the late Robert B. Immordino, I wish to publicly thank Bill Agress, Steven Groeger and the Lawrence Township Recreation Department for once again coordinating the annual Col. Hand Historic March Re-enactment.
   When my father began the Col. Hand March in 1962 with a small group of seventh-, eighth-, and ninth grade students from the Junior Historians Club at Lawrence Junior High, he never imagined it would grow into an annual event, enjoyed by so many community members, scout groups, mayors and council members, and a growing number of re-enactors, which has endured for 49 years.
   My father was especially thankful for and encouraged by his close friend Bill Agress’ continued interest in and devotion to the march, especially with Bill’s enthusiastic portrayal of Col. Hand beginning in 1981.
   Our family is also grateful for the beautiful plaque and flagpole erected on the banks of the Shabakunk Creek at Notre Dame High School in memory of my father as the creator of the march, which was made possible through the generosity of Roma Bank and dedicated during the January 2010 march. It is a wonderful symbol of my father’s love of both Lawrence Township and of American history.
   We are also especially thankful for the loving support of family members Clora Bilancio Acquaviva, Dean Acquaviva, Henry Montague, and Tim Montague, for representing our family at the 2010 and 2011 marches. They continue to keep my father’s spirit and commitment alive.
   My mother, Jennie Bilancio Immordino, my sister, Roberta Immordino, and I look forward to joining the celebration of the 50th annual Col. Hand Historic March in January 2012 as Lawrence Township continues to observe my father’s vision of re-enacting and celebrating vital moments in local and national history through first-hand experiences.