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MANVILLE: ‘Forgotten heroes’ honored at ceremony

Story by Mary Ellen Day, Special Writer
Veterans remembered those who died in the Korean War at a June 24 service at the VFW Post 2290 on Washington Avenue. The ceremony was conducted outside by the monument with veterans, Boy Scouts, friends, family and guests in attendance.
Post Commander Fred Gorbatuk said, "We are here assembled to pay a lasting tribute of respect to our departed comrades of the Korean War. When the call of our country was heard, they answered. They marched away with their abiding faith in their God, their country and their flag."
Members of the VFW and the Ladies Auxiliary President placed red, white and blue carnations on the monument along with a small wreath in remembrance. After, the Color Guard fired three volleys. The playing of Taps followed.
Guests were introduced by Andy Henkel.
Borough Council President Mark Gregor and Past State President Ladies Auxiliary VFW New Jersey Deborah McLendon.
From June 25, 1950, through July 27, 1953, nearly 37,000 U.S. soldiers were killed during "the ‘Forgotten War," said Ms McLendon.
"We reflect and honor them for their sacrifices in their efforts to suppress Communism. Today, 61 years later Korea is still a divided country, north and south, along the 38th parallel, otherwise known as the DMZ."
"May we continue to remember those who gave all the ultimate sacrifice for country," she said. "We as a nation should strive to never forget those that laid down their lives and to those veterans that carry the burden of the memories of their fellow fallen soldiers."
They never forget and we should never forget. God Bless our troops serving us today in harms ways, our veterans, and those returning home with infirmities and Gold Bless the USA because this is the land of the free and our servicemen have shown us the value of this freedom," said Ms. McLendon.
Other guests included VFW Past Commander Vince Bartolone, District 15 President Cindy Dilks, Past State President Cathy Glen-Henkel and Borough Council members Susan Asher, Ron Skirkanish, Richard Onderko and Steve Szabo, who is also a member of VFW Post 2290.