JACKSON – A township tradition that pays tribute to veterans and wounded service members in particular, returned in the form of the 13th Annual Wounded Warrior Parade/Escort at the Township Justice Complex.
Mayor Michael Reina once again hosted this event as he has since 2008 when it started. Veterans, township officials, police and others who assisted with the event assembled at the Township Justice Complex to prepare for their ride over to the Central Jersey Rifle and Pistol Club.
The Warriors were escorted by members of the Township Police Department, volunteer Fire Companies, Jackson Township First Aid Squad, various motorcycle groups, as well as other volunteers during the morning.
The mayor said that he always enjoys spending time with the “courageous men and women” during the morning into the afternoon. Residents, organizations and clubs lined up from the Justice Complex on West Veterans Highway all the way to the Central Jersey Rifle and Pistol Club on South Stump Tavern Road as a sign of support and to honor the veterans.
“The freedoms we enjoy as Americans have been purchased and maintained at a high price throughout our history. We owe a great debt to those who have served in defense of our nation. For many, their sacrifice has ended in permanent injury,” Mayor Reina said.
“It has been a true honor to ride alongside these heroes each year as we escort them,” he added. Along with the mayor, Councilman Nino Borrelli and Council Vice President Martin Flemming were present for the event.
This year firetruck 5625 of the Cassville Fire Company joined a firetruck from the Whitesville Fire company at the front entranceway and provided the metal framework to hang a huge American flag for the parade to pass through as it headed toward the rifle club.
The vehicles that provided the escort and those that provided a lift for the veterans included motorcycles, fire trucks, EMS vehicles and police motorcycles. A police color guard was on hand as per tradition.
Among those watching the parade were members of the Basso family. “I have been here before. I brought the kids out to show them all the veterans and the lights and vehicles,” Mike Basso said as his children waved to passing fire trucks.
Also present were members and leaders of Girl Scout Troop 49. “It is a tradition for us to come out for this but it is the first time that these members have done it. My older girl’s scout troop has come out before,” scout leader and mom Kelly Glenn said.
Other Girl Scouts and their leaders noted that while the COVID-19 pandemic has put in a crimp into some of their activities it was important to come out and support the veterans during the morning parade.
The mayor joined the veterans who were treated to lunch and some time at the range when they reached the local gun club. Al Dolce, a long-time member of the club welcomed the veterans who attended. He noted that any agency, club or group wishing to take part in next year’s parade to help support local veterans, should contact Mayor Reina’s office at 732-928-1200 ext.1211.
All Wounded Warriors and veterans who are interested in attending next year’s event can email Dolce at njgunfun@gmail.com.
