Community Corner

John Basilone Motorcade Route Released For Sunday

This year instead of the usual parade, a motorcade will drive through the streets of Raritan in honor of John Basilone on Sunday.

The motorcade route has been released.
The motorcade route has been released. (Courtesy of John Basilone Parade Committee)

RARITAN, NJ — The motorcade route has been released. Due to the coronavirus, a motorcade will take the place of the usual parade to honor John Basilone on Sunday.

Starting at 1 p.m., a motorcade of dozens of vehicles will go through the streets of Raritan. The public is encouraged to cheer on this motorcade from their lawns or from any spot on the route.

The motorcade will finish at the Basilone Statue at around 2 p.m. where a brief (and safe) ceremony will be held.

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There will be a photo competition for this event. Both those watching and those riding are encouraged to take photos of the motorcade, ceremony, or of themselves — dressed in patriotic attire.

Email the best 5 photos to basiloneparade@gmail.com. Winners will receive a gift certificate to a local Raritan business.

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The 39th Annual John Basilone Memorial Parade for 2020 was initially canceled due to coronavirus concerns. Read More: John Basilone Memorial Parade Canceled Due To Coronavirus

The motorcade is a one-time replacement for the annual parade which cannot be held this year due to the coronavirus, the John Basilone Parade Committee said.

The annual parade honors Raritan local and National World War II hero, Marine Sergeant John Basilone.

For questions call the Parade co-chairman Bruce Doorly at 908-581-1917.

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.

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