WEST ORANGE, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of the West Orange Public School District. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.
West Orange Township and the West Orange School District came together on Monday to celebrate Memorial Day and honor the sacrifices made by West Orange veterans.
West Orange has long been known as “New Jersey’s Most Decorated Community” for recognizing over 360 local combat veterans with the New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal, more than any other municipality in the state. In addition to the active township participation of the Glennon-Sayers VFW Post 376, Veteran’s Memorial Park, adjacent to town hall, recognizes residents killed in battle During WWI, WWII, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.
This year’s ceremony was moved indoors to Council Chambers due to the rainy weather. In addition to community members, Senator John McKeon, township officials, and township council members were in attendance for the event, which was organized by by Mayor Susan McCartney’s assistant Melanie Showalter, Public Information Officer Joe Fagan, and the West Orange High School AFJROTC.
Following the posting of the colors by the AFJROTC, West Orange High School Lt. Col. Evan Montgomery led the community in the Pledge of Allegiance. USMC Corporal Harvey Lott sang the National Anthem, and Rabbi Mendy Kasowitz (Chabad West Orange), provided the invocation.
Mayor McCartney noted, “Today, we gather together as a community to remember and honor the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces who gave their lives in service to our nation. Here in West Orange, we pause with deep gratitude to remember the local residents who proudly wore our nation’s uniform and made the ultimate sacrifice, from the days of the American Revolution through today. We also honor the families who carried the burden of loss with strength and dignity, preserving the values of freedom, democracy, unity, and service that continue to define our nation."
"As our country commemorates the 250th Anniversary of America’s founding, we are reminded that the spirit of sacrifice has always been woven into the American story. From the Revolutionary War to present-day service members defending freedom around the world, generations of Americans have stepped forward to protect the liberties we too often take for granted.”
As part of the 250th celebration of America, West Orange has become an official REV NJ partner.
West Orange High School Class of 2018 Sergeant Sayeed Bennett was promoted to Second Lieutenant (2nd Lt.) by Maj. Joseph Danczuk of the New York National Guard. 2nd Lt. Bennett served with Maj. Danczuk in Germany.
Lynette Sheard, a popular local vocalist, performed Lift Every Voice and Sing, and PIO and West Orange historian Joe Fagan stepped to the microphone to offer remarks on West Orange’s participation in war, particularly the Revolutionary War.
“More battles and military took place here than in almost any other colony, earning New Jersey the title “The Crossroads of the Revolution,” he began.
“This community, like much of New Jersey, lived in the shadow of fear and uncertainty. Positioned between British-held New York and the patriot strongholds to the south and west, this region became part of a dangerous and contested corridor where allegiance was rarely simple. Neighbors who had worshipped together, worked side-by-side and shared many community ties suddenly found themselves separated between divided loyalties.”
Fagan recounted the story of Tory Corner (still found along Main Street near Franklin Ave.) and the Williams family, some of the earliest settlers in the area, "who were torn apart by divided loyalties…their experiences remind us that the American Revolution was not solely won by generals and statesmen, but also in countless local communities like West Orange whose struggles, divisions, and perseverance gave meaning to the ideals of liberty and self-determination.”
He concluded, “Today, as we reflect upon America’s 250th anniversary, let us remember that the story of independence was written not only in the halls of history, but also in the fields, crossroads, and homes in communities like West Orange. It is a place we call our home, and where the promise of freedom always came with sacrifice, uncertainty, and the courage to endure through one of the most defining moments in American history.”
In an emotional moment, members of the Morgan family: dad Chris, mom April, and sister Camryn dedicated a wreath to CJ Morgan, a WOHS Class of 2015 graduate who was tragically killed during a training exercise at West Point in 2019. CJ's brother Colin and sister Chase are currently serving in the United States Army. WOHS junior Ethan Joaquin played a mournful Taps as the community sat in silence.
Former Petty Officer and Pastor Douglas Adams (Joy Church of God) gave the Benediction, focusing on the need for unity and faith during troubled times.
As the colors were retired, the ceremony ended with Corporal Lott performing “God Bless America.”
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