The annual Memorial Day Parade took place on Thursday, May 25, 2023, at 7:00 pm. The parade line of march stepped off at Belgrove Drive and Locust Avenue and traveled south on Belgrove Drive, culminating in a ceremony held at the American Legion Post 99 recognizing those who died while in service to our country. The program featured remarks by Mayor Alberto G. Santos and many veterans, and their family members were there to acknowledge the sacrifice made by all Veterans, living and deceased, and to honor those who gave their lives fighting for freedom. A very special thanks to NJ State Department Commandant John Cleary of the Marine Corps West Hudson Detachment, who served as the Master of ceremonies. UVO Liaison Councilwoman Carol Jean Doyle and Councilmembers Marytrine De Castro, George Zapata, Richard Konopka, Peter Santana, Eileen Eckel, Stathis Theodoropoulos, and Gerald Ficeto attended the ceremony along with Assemblyman William Sampson, Assemblywoman Angela V. McKnight, and Barbara Stamato.
Mayor Santos thanked Kearny’s veterans and the veterans’ organizations (VFW Post 1302, American Legion Post 99, Marine Corps West Hudson Detachment, and the UVO) that helped make this year’s Memorial Day parade and ceremony special and extended his gratitude to those who served our country, so that we never forget their sacrifice and their dedication to duty, honor, and country. The Town of Kearny extends its gratitude to Chief George King, Chief Joseph Mastandrea, Grand Marshal and Post 99 Commander Keith McMillian, Adrian Linares, Dr. Lillian Ramos, Rev. Elaine Connolly, and all the civic organizations that gave their time to march in the parade
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Members of American Legion Post 99 and VFW Post 1302 laid wreaths at monument locations honoring veterans in the Town of Kearny and the brave men who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country and freedoms.