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MANVILLE: Services, parade mark Memorial Day in borough

By Mary Ellen Zangara, Special Writer
   Memorial Day was observed Sunday to honor and remember those who have served and died in the Armed Forces.
   Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2290 sponsored the day’s services and events.
   The day began with a Mass at Sacred Heart Church, followed by a service at the post, a service at Sacred Heart Cemetery and a sea service at Duke’s Park at the Raritan River.
   Post Commander Andy Henkel and his fellow comrades honored those who lost their lives at sea by tossing a red, white and blue carnation into the river along with a wreath. Ladies Auxiliary President Joyce Tanalski also participated in the ceremony. A flag was placed on the river banks.
   Following the service, the veterans proudly marched down South Main Street carrying the American flag. Renny Dilks had the honor of being the grand marshal of the parade. Mr. Dilks rode in the Model T owned and driven by resident Russ Rayot and waved to the crowds that lined Main Street.
   The parade ended at the VFW, and a brief ceremony was held inside to honor the grand marshal and all veterans. Mr. Henkel thanked everyone for attending and asked Michael Zangara of Boy Scout Troop 193 to lead the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the national anthem.
   Grand marshal Mr. Dilks spoke first — he still wanted to attend to his long-held duty of cooking for the guests.
   ”It was an honor to be chosen as grand marshal,” he said. “I thank everyone for getting me to be grand marshal. On the other hand, Memorial Day is a day of remembering those who gave their sacrifices. It is not a day of going shopping, having barbecues, but, unfortunately, that is what is going to happen. Today is a day to remember the people who gave the ultimate sacrifice so that we could be here today. As you go around this town and this country and you see servicemen, thank them for their service for without them, we would not have what we have today.”
   Mr. Henkel began the service by saying, “As the unofficial beginning of summer, we must never lose focus of what Memorial Day means. It’s not about the beaches, picnics or auto races. It is a day to remember. We must never forget what these heroes have done and what their loved ones have lost.
   ”There are many ways to remember our fallen heroes. The traditional way is with flowers and flags for their graves or with observances such we have done today.”
   He introduced the guests, including Borough Council President Sherri Lynn and council members Susan Asher, Richard Onderko, Lou Petzinger and Steve Szabo. Council members also marched in the parade.
   Others introduced were Ladies Auxiliary President Joyce Tanalski, District 15 President Cindy Dilks, VFW Department of New Jersey Junior Vice President Deborah McLendon and District 18 Commander Vince Bartelone.
   Ms. McLendon said, in part, “As we pause this Memorial Day, remember those who fought, those that gave their life and for those who willingly stand ready today to do the same without question when the defense of freedom calls on them. We owe each of them the highest regard, respect and honor and the assurance that their commitment to this nation’s freedom will never be forgotten.”