Gloucester Township residents came together on Oct. 5 to honor their veterans at a ceremony in Community Park.
The event – organized by Mayor David Mayer and council – recognized nearly 500 vets from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces in front of about 2,000 attendees. Its centerpiece was the awarding of the Gloucester Township Meritorious Service Medal, presented to veterans who have demonstrated exceptional service to the country while residing in the township.
Among them was 103-year-old former technical Sgt. Chester H. Clark, a veteran of World War II who served in Okinawa, Japan. In his opening remarks, Mayer emphasized the importance of the day and the township’s commitment to its veterans.
“This ceremony is a small but meaningful way for Gloucester Township to show our appreciation for the service of our veterans,” he said. “They have given so much to protect our freedoms, and it is our responsibility to ensure they receive the respect and support they have earned. As mayor … it is important to me that the township continues to not only renew its commitment to our local veterans, but strives to find new ways to expand our efforts to support our hometown heroes.”
The ceremony was marked by contributions from local organizations and groups. The township police honor guard gave a formal presentation of colors and patriotic performances followed, including renditions of classic American songs by the Mainstage Center for the Arts and local singer Michelle Botsford. Also on hand were Highland High School Air Force Junior ROTC cadets.
A poignant moment came when Mayer shared Clark’s story, including his participation in the bloody and ferocious battle of Okinawa in April of 1945, near the war’s end.
“Technical Sgt. Clark’s story is one of courage, resilience and dedication,” Mayer noted. “We are honored to recognize him today and hope that his life of service inspires our young people to value freedom and the principles that our veterans fought to uphold.”
The ceremony crowd included family members, friends and neighbors with whom some of the medal honorees shared emotional moments.
“It’s an honor to be able to present medals to the veterans of Gloucester Township,” observed Congressman Donald Norcross. “These brave men and women sacrificed so much to defend their fellow Americans and our fundamental freedoms. We will forever be indebted to our nation’s veterans, and I’m proud to work in Congress to ensure that this country repays them for all they’ve done.”
Norcross also highlighted ongoing efforts in Congress to pass legislation on improved health care for vets, employment opportunities and access to mental-health services, all issues he promised to address.
The medal ceremony is just one example of the township’s dedication to its veteran community. Throughout the year, it provides a range of programs and resources, and has also developed initiatives to assist vets with housing.
The ceremony concluded with a final salute, as attendees stood and applauded the honorees.
For more information on Gloucester Township’s veteran services and upcoming programs, visit the township website at Glotwp Veterans Services.
