Submitted by: Gay Hollowell
This year a new tradition began in Berkeley Heights. A special program honoring our Veterans and military personnel and formally renaming the centrally located Memorial Park was held on November 11th. The new program was part of “Operation: We Remember” and coordinated by the Veterans Memorial Park Renewal Committee. VFW Post 6259 presented the colors. Honorary Committee Member and long time resident Vito Mondelli led the flag salute. In an emotional speech, Shiloh Frampton representing the VFW, thanked the town for honoring our Veterans and service men and women with this new ceremony, and how significant it is that the Park has been renamed. Mayor Robert Woodruff formally renamed Memorial Park to Veterans Memorial Park and placed a wreath on the Memorial Wall. He encouraged the over 100 people in the crowd to remember our Veterans and enlisted personnel not just on Veterans Day, but every day.
Through funds already raised and with tremendous volunteer help and donated materials, a new Memorial wall and walkway to the park have been installed, along with new electrical upgrades that beautifully light Old Glory at night. Mayor Woodruff shared his recent experience visiting Normandy and reminded the crowd of the amazing courage and sacrifices of our soldiers so that we might enjoy our freedom. Councilman and Committee member Craig Pastore read the names of Berkeley Heights men who died in service to our country in World War II.
Committee Chair Ted Romankow explained that funds are still needed to complete the park renovations which include: new sidewalks, benches, and lamp posts, as well as a new statue entitled “Fallen Soldier” and monuments to those who served in Afghanistan and the continuing War on Terror in the Middle East. Renovations will be done in time for Memorial Day 2016 but financial and volunteer support is still needed. Community members are invited to visit www.BHMemorialPark.com for more information or to donate online. Contributions are tax deductible and may also be made payable to: Veterans Memorial Park Renewal Committee and sent to 29 Park Ave., Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922. To find out how you or your business or organization might help in the restoration efforts, please call (908) 208-7800.
