Nick Alimecco, 95, thanks everyone for remembering
By Mary Ellen Day, Special Writer
VFW Pearl Harbor ceremony 2013 Veterans of Foreign War Post 2290 held its annual ceremony Saturday to remember Dec. 7, 1941, as the day Japan attacked Pearl Harbor, drawing the United States into World War II.
Past Commander Andy Henkel, the master of ceremonies, said, “On the faithful day in history America suffered a great loss with 3,500 dead or wounded, more than 350 aircraft destroyed and 18 ships sunk or severely damaged. Many dark days followed the unthinkable ambush that occurred on U.S. soil. But throughout its history America has never accepted defeat or despair. Nor has it succumbed to intimidation.”
Commander Charles Goodyear told the attendees, “One by one we are called upon to fulfill these sad duties of respect to our departed comrades.”
Members of the VFW post laid red, white and blue carnations onto a memorial, along with a wreath and a flag symbolizing the loss. Outside, the firing squad gave a gun salute as taps was being played.
Raritan Borough Mayor Jo-Ann Liptak pointed out 95-year-old Nicholas Alimecco wearing a Pearl Harbor survivor hat. She walked up him and said “Thank you, sir. Thank you for your service. Thank you for all that you have done for us,” as he received a round of applause.
Mr. Alimecco, a member of Post 2290, was recognized and Jim Wisor escorted him to the front during the applause.
Mr. Alimecco said that 72 years ago at age 20 he was drafted and began serving in the Army.
On Dec. 7, 1941, he said, “There many young men who lost their lives that day and so many others. Lives were changed forever. So, you see this is a great thing that we all do this every Dec. 7th. God bless our veterans and our troops and God bless you and God Bless America.”
In attendance were Mayor Angelo Corradino and Borough Council members Ed Komoroski, Steve Szabo, Sue Asher, Ron Skirkanish and Mark Gregor.
Also there were Boy Scout Troop 193, Raritan Mayor JoAnn Liptak, state Assemblywoman Donna Simon, VFW District 15 President Cindy Dilks, members of American Legion 452, Tin Can Sailors and other veterans and residents of the community.