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Politics & Government

SPF VFW and American Legion Honors Comrades, Pays Tribute to Those Who Serve

Residents and Comrades gathered at separate memorials in Scotch Plains and in Fanwood to celebrate our Veterans.

Scores of residents and veterans gathered at the War Memorial on Park Avenue and Front Street in Scotch Plains and later at the Fanwood Memorial library to pay tribute to those who risk their lives to selflessly protect this country, as well as those who had fallen in the line of duty. As the cool crisp wind whipped the flags through the fall air, Joe McCourt, a veteran of the Vietnam War and a member of VFW Post 209, served as the master of ceremonies, honoring those who have served our country.

Fanwood Councilman Anthony Parenti, who is also a veteran, delivered a resolution that had been prepared by Mayor Colleen Mahr, thanking all veterans on behalf of the residents of Fanwood for their service to this country in their fight to protect our freedom. Congressman Leonard Lance spoke at the service given at the Fanwood Memorial Library and presented the local chapters of the VFW and the American Legion with an American Flag that has flown over the United States Capital.   

In her impassioned speech to the city of Scotch Plains, veterans, and their families, Mayor Nancy Malool encouraged local business owners to hire veterans who continue to face extraordinary challenges when coming home because the economic climate in this country makes it so difficult for even heroes to find jobs. 

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McCourt as well as Mayor Malool, and Congressman Leonard Lance noted that Veterans Day is a day to express your gratitude for our brave men and women; the 25 million or, 10 percent of this country who selflessly protect our freedom.

"These men and women answered the call not because they had a burning desire to go to war, but because the wanted to protect the peace," McCourt stated

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As you enjoy this beautiful evening, or reflect on witnessing the American Legion Color Guard waving their flags in the clear blue sky or the haunting melody of taps artfully played by Cadet Thomas Kean Jr., make sure that you stop and thank a veteran for their service. As a Mayor Malool pointed out in her address, that simple comment means so much. 

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