By: Edir Coronado
A dreary weather forecast, full of thunder and rain predictions forced Berkeley Heights Township to reschedule the unveiling and re-dedication of Veterans Memorial Park, organized by the Berkeley Heights Memorial Park Renewal Committee, from Memorial Day to June 4th. The feeling of patriotism and pride still ling ere d as members of the co mmu nity gathered for this special occasion to pay tribute to fallen veterans. The cere mony began with Berkeley Heig hts Troop 368 leading the crowd with the pledge of allegiance . T hen Dennis Ryan, th e Memorial D ay P ara de Chairman, got t he crowd involved in singing the Nation Anthem.
The renewal ceremony was sponsored by the Berkeley Heights VFW post 6259 and as Ryan i ntroduced th is y ear ’s Grand Marsha l a somber tone emerged. CPL Vito Mondelli Junior, born an d raised in Berkeley Heights, trained in Camp Legune, served in Japan, had passed away after he was given the honor of Grand Marshall. CPL Mondelli battled for the new renewal project and never had a chance to see the new monument, but wa s comfo rte d by his friend’s ass urance that the project wo uld be completed. To accept the honor on his behalf was Trent Fettes, last year ’s Grand Marshal.
Afterwards the names of all active duty member ’ were read outload for all to hear and recognize. Joe Plolinfki , father of Matthew Plolinfki, active duty service member currently on deployment, was then called up to unveil the newest memorial.
Keeping with the flow of honor ing veterans and service mem bers of those who passed away and are currently serving, the Westminster Presbyterian Church presented the Quilt of Valor to Retired Chief Butler, 96, of the United States Navy.
The ceremony co nti nued w it h t he commi ttee readin g t he names o f Berkeley heights residents who passed away during WWII and members of the VFW Post 6259 who died during the last year. The ceremonial Wreath placement then commenced, led by post 6259.
The event gathered a large amount of people, who the committee acknowledged and were grateful for, both for their attendance at the ceremony and the contributions made towards the memorial. The revamping of Veteran’s Memorial Park was truly a community effort, with the town Rotary Club donating monies, to the high school and middle school students raising awareness. Senator Menendez donated a flag, which was flown over the White House, and was hoisted at the Park during the ceremony.
The Ceremony ended with members of the Hickory Tree Chorus Sweet Adelines International singing ‘This is my Country’ and ‘God Bless America’.
(above) During the ceremony the names were read of Berkeley Heights residents who passed away during WWII and members of the VFW Post 6259 who died during past last year.
(above) Members of the Hickory Tree Chorus
Sweet Adelines International sang ‘This is my Country’ and ‘God Bless America’.
