IN REMEMBRANCE: The Beach Haven Community Arts Program annually hosts a Veterans Day observance in Veterans Park, featuring members of the VFW Post 3729. (Photo by Jack Reynolds)
Veterans Day, observed on Nov. 11 each year since 1919, honors service members of the United States Armed Forces. Originally established as Armistice Day to mark the end of World War I, the holiday is a national tribute to veterans of all generations and military branches.
In Southern Ocean County, communities will gather in remembrance and appreciation, recognize local veterans, reflect on their sacrifices and service, and express gratitude for the safeguarding of freedoms.
In Barnegat, the American Legion and VFW posts hold a service at 11 a.m. at the Frederick Watts Gazebo Park, on the northeast corner of Route 9 and East Bay Ave. The American Legion Post #232 and VFW Post 10092 lead the ceremony.
Beach Haven CAP honors those who have served at 10:45 a.m. in Veterans Park, rain or shine. The program features members of VFW Post 3729 and Beach Haven Elementary School students.
Long Beach Township will hold its commemoration at noon in the municipality’s Veterans Park, at 133rd Street and Long Beach Boulevard in Beach Haven Terrace.
“Starting the tribute will be the Southern Regional Choir with the National Anthem, followed by Chelsea Wozniak singing ‘America the Beautiful,’” said township officials. “Mayor Joseph Mancini and the VFW Post 3729-Long Beach Island chaplain will say a few words and a prayer, and then we will open up to our veterans. Following the tribute, a bugler from Bugles Across America will perform Taps.”
Refreshments from Jersey Girl Grill and Jersey Girl Kitchen – coffee, hot cocoa, bagels and coffee cake – will be provided.
“We look forward to this every year,” said Mancini. “We encourage people to join us.”
Stafford Township invites the public to gather in the municipal complex courtyard at 260 East Bay Ave. in Manahawkin at 9 a.m.
In addition, Wally’s Restaurant in Surf City invites vets and one special guest each to a free meal – breakfast, lunch or dinner – and the Antique Village in West Creek offers free hot dogs for all while supplies last, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in recognition of veterans and active-duty service members.
