Town honors veterans’
By Jenine Clancy, Special Writer
MONROE — The trumpets blared from members of the Monroe Township High School Marching Band and American flags were waved high for fallen veterans at the Monroe Township Municipal Complex’s memorial on Monday.
Veterans from the American Legion Post 128 in Jamesburg and Post 522 in Monroe, were accompanied by Korean War Veterans Post 148 and members from the public, Mayor Richard Pucci, Council President Gerald Tamburro, Councilmen Michael Liebowitz, Stephen Dalina and Betty Schneider, Business Administrator Wayne Hamilton and Fire Commissioner Charles DiPierro in honoring the soldiers.
American Legion Chaplain Andrew Oslinker opened the ceremonies thanking all those who served.
"This day is day is sacred with the almost-physical presence, of those who have gone before us," said Mr. Oslinker. "We honor the memory of those who gave their lives in the service of our country. May the ceremonies of today deepen our reverence for all of our departed friends and comrades who served the armed forces."
A 30-second moment of silent was held and a salute to the flag with three riflemen firing three gunshot rounds each.
"We often gather here on Veterans Day and Memorial Day, for a special appreciation for those who served, and today (more) importantly to those who have given their life for this wonderful freedom we enjoy," said Mayor Pucci who was a keynote speaker.
There is no greater honor that could be bestowed upon anyone than to give their life to their nation," said Mayor Pucci. "Young men and woman, over time, did at that for us."
Council President Tamburro and Councilman Liebowitz, both war veterans, laid the red, white and blue wreath on the war memorial.
The veterans and council members then went per to Veterans Park on Avenue K in Jamesburg for another wreath laying.
"As we all get older and World War II veterans are dying at such high rate, this becomes an even more important thing for us," said Charles Dunlop Finance Officer for the Post 522.
"This is so important that the public gets out, the fact there are men from the previous wars, its a great honor," he said.