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MANVILLE: Sacred duty: Remember Pearl Harbor

VFW holds annual remembrance ceremony of ‘date of infamy’

By Mary Ellen Day, Special Writer
Veterans of Foreign War Post 2290 held its annual Pearl Harbor remembrance ceremony Sunday, Dec. 7,  at the post hall to commemorate the 73rd anniversary of Dec. 7, 1941, the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor and brought America into World War II.
Commander Andy Henkel, the master of ceremonies, began by saying, "As Veterans of Foreign Wars we have seen firsthand the cost of freedom. For that reason we are here today to pay tribute to those who have paid so dearly for our freedom."
He recalled that the Japanese air attack on the U.S. Pacific naval fleet wounded 1,178 Americans and 2,403 lay dead or dying.
VFW Commander Fred Gorbatuk told the attendees it was the veterans’ intent "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. Outside, a squad’s volley gave a gun salute as taps was played.
Mayor Angelo Corradino spoke briefly as did Auxiliary District 15 President Cindy Dilks. Paula Pinto, president of the Ladies Auxiliary to the Veteran of Foreign War, read from a Pearl Harbor veteran’s diary.
of the accounting of the time he spent.
She addressed Nicholas Alimecco, a Pearl Harbor survivor, sitting next to her by saying "It has been a distinct privilege and honor to make your acquaintance today and it is with extreme gratitude and respect that I thank you for your service."
Past State Commander Jack Shiverdaker also thanked Mr. Alimecco, who was escorted to the front with a standing ovation.
Those in attendance included Borough Council members Mark Gregor, Steve Szabo, Sue Asher, Ron Skirkanish and Richard Onderko. Also there were members of Boy Scout Troop 193, the Civil Air Patrol, the American Legion, VVA 452, Tin Can Sailors, bikers, other veterans and residents of the community.