Photo By Sgt. Salvatore Ottaviano | Col. John Wildermann, congressional legislative liaison for the U.S. Army Reserve’s...... read more read more
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BURLINGTON, N.J. – “Memorial Day is a day of national recognition, honoring the military men and women who died in service to the United States during peacetime and war,” said Col. John Wildermann, congressional legislative liaison for the U.S. Army Reserve’s 99th Readiness Division, during the 17th Annual Memorial Day wreath-laying ceremony here May 30.
“We reflect on our rich history and legacy of service, sacrifice, and dedication,” Wildermann continued.
A collective gathering of Veterans of Foreign Wars, legislative officials, police officers, and members of the surrounding community paid homage in honor of the fallen and the enduring legacy of the Army.
“In your own personal moments of reflection, I ask that you remember all our veterans as you consider the enormous debt owed to all who have served this great nation,” shared Wildermann. “I ask, too, that you include in your thoughts and prayers the wives and husbands, the mothers and fathers, the brothers and sisters, and the sons and daughters of those who serve and sacrifice.”
First observed after the Civil War, Memorial Day was initially called “Decoration Day” because families gathered to remember their loved ones by decorating gravesites with flowers or flags.
“For the past 17 years, we’ve hosted this ceremony on May 30 in recognition of the holiday’s origin,” said Allison Eckel, commissioner deputy director, Burlington County Board of Commissioners.
This year was no ordinary holiday. It carried an extra layer of significance as it coincides with the 250th birthday of the United States Army.
“As we think about those who fought and died for our country, we remember the Continental Army’s battle cry of, ‘This we’ll defend,’ which is also our theme for the anniversary of our Army’s founding,” Wildermann explained.
| Date Taken: | 05.30.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 06.04.2025 14:43 |
| Story ID: | 499657 |
| Location: | BURLINGTON, NEW JERSEY, US |
| Web Views: | 45 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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