Fanwood Borough Memorial Day Weekend Events

Posted on by Dan DiBella Posted in Fanwood Post, Our Publications
The SPF Memorial Day Committee honors Memorial Day this year with an event reflecting the contributions made by our military men and women with a special nod to our World War II veterans. For the second year in a row, we will not have a parade after it was determined in the early spring by the Committee and local health officials that a parade would not comply with the COVID guidelines in effect at the time. However, our ceremony and other events will honor the precious memories of our fallen military heros. We extend an invitation to you and your family to join us at the Fanwood Memorial Library, Tillotson Road and North Avenue.

Memorial Day Weekend Events

Saturday, May 29th 

RR209 Remembrance Ruck– 7-11 am. American Legion, 237 Park Avenue Scotch Plains.  Rucking is the foundation of Special Forces training.  It is the practice of walking with a weighted rucksack (aka backpack). It implies action, energy, and purpose. Rucking requires strength, endurance, and character — and builds it, too. This 6.5 mile Ruck Walkthrough Fanwood and Scotch Plains will require a 10lb minimum ruck/backpack/weighted vest and boots are encouraged. To sign up go to eventbrite.com/e/ready-regiment-209-tickets-151981989221. The route can be viewed HERE. Organized by Fanwood’s own Oshanda Erb.

Monday, May 31st

RR209 Memorial Day 8 Mile Walk, Run, Bike Charge – This self-directed walk or run can be completed by anyone who wants to follow one of the recommended routes around town along streets named for Fanwood veterans. There are lawn signs along the way detailing the individual named and what service/war they fought in. The goal is for individuals to get in the 8 miles to complete the “mission”.  Click below to view the suggested routes:

Fanwood Memorial Day Ceremony – 9am, Fanwood Memorial Library. We will commemorate the shared tradition of sacrifice and service by those in the armed forces. This year we dedicate the event to the 80th anniversary of America’s involvement in World War II as we remember those brave men and women who fought and died for our freedoms.  The ceremony will include:

·        INVOCATION

Father John Paladino, St. Bartholomew’s

·        PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

Master Sgt. Oshanda Erb, USAF

·        STAR SPANGLED BANNER

Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School vocalist

·        INTRODUCTION AND GREETING OF DISTINGUISHED GUESTS

Mayor Colleen Mahr

·        THANKS TO THE MEMORIAL DAY COMMITTEE

Master Sgt. Oshanda Erb, USAF
John Mooney, Editor, TapInto.com
Michele Moore, Fanwood Resident

·        KEYNOTE REMARKS

Master Sgt. Oshanda Erb, USAF

·        MEMORIAL DAY RESOLUTION FROM FANWOOD MAYOR AND COUNCIL

Mayor Colleen Mahr

·        GOD BLESS AMERICA

Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School vocalist

·        LAYING OF WREATHS

American Legion Post 209
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10122
Fanwood Rescue Squad
Fanwood Police Department 
Fanwood Fire Department

·        TAPS

Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School Students

·        BENEDICTION

Father John Paladino, St. Bartholomew’s

After the ceremony, (weather permitting) participants and members of the public are invited to join an informal march up to Martine Avenue into Scotch Plains to attend the Scotch Plains ceremony, beginning at approximately 10 am at the Veteran’s Monument, 430 Park Avenue in Scotch Plains NJ.