Community Corner

Memorial Day Festivities in Scotch Plains-Fanwood

A rundown of the day's events.

Many of us have been long counting down to this upcoming three-day weekend, the unofficial start to summer. 

But it's important to remember that Memorial Day also has meaning: to pay tribute to the commitment and sacrifice of our Armed Forces. Scotch Plains and Fanwood have lined up a full schedule that morning to honor and remember veterans of past and present wars. 

The day will commence at 8 a.m. with American Legion Post 209 holding an observance at its facilities at 237 Park Avenue in Scotch Plains. Following at 9 a.m. and 10 a.m., respectfully, there will be a laying of wreaths at Fanwood Memorial Library and at the Veterans Memorial at Park Avenue and Front Street in Scotch Plains. The annual parade will then begin at 10:45 a.m. in downtown Scotch Plains, and end in Fanwood.

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This year's parade will "Commemorate the Service of All Veterans." The Grand Marshal will be Lt. Col. Edward Chrystal, Jr. the commanding officer of the 1-102nd Cavalry Squadron, 50th Brigade Combat Team of the NJ Army National Guard, based at the Westfield Armory. Lt. Col. Chrystal, a Scotch Plains resident, served in Iraq from October 2008 to June 2009.

Other veterans of past and present wars are also encouraged to get involved with the parade and march behind the grand marshall. Anyone interested can call Don Wussler at 908-889-1709 to register.

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Last year, hundreds of area residents lined the streets to watch veterans, town officials and local organizations march from Scotch Plains to Fanwood. Many more will surely do so this year, so it's best to get there early to reserve a place up close. 

Other observances include the Scotch Plains Fire Department remembering its members who have answered the final call. The service will be Monday morning at 9 a.m. at the Fire Department Memorial in front of the Fire Headquarters at 430 Senger Place – directly behind the municipal building. 

Members who have passed will be honored by the reading of their names as they appear on the plaques on the memorial, a single ring of the bell, followed by Taps played by Michael Gleason. This event is open to all and especially those whose family members are honored at this service.

Planning a cookout, party or observance of your own for Memorial Day? Tell us about it and share the news with your neighbors by e-mailing lindsay@patch.com.


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