Southern New Jersey Overlook

Yesterday, Medford Township celebrated the holiday it's annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremonies.  It was lead off by the Shawnee High School Marching Band, followed by kids in their decorated bikes, local honorees, officials, community groups and a long line of police, fire and emergency vehicles from Medford and the surrounding communities of Medford Lakes, Southampton, Shamong, Evesham and Tabernacle townships and the Forest Service.   At the conclusion of the parade, the traditional wreath laying ceremony was held at the War Memorial.

VFW Post 7677 hosted the activities in conjunction with Medford Township officials.

Mr. William F. Bielec, World War II veteran and 30 year resident of Medford was honored as the Grand Marshall of this year's parade.  Mr. Bielec fought in Europe in World War II, rising to the rank of Army Captain.  During the war he was part of the 4th infantry serving under Omar Bradley and was part of the initial landing force at Utah Beach on June 6, 1944, for which he was awarded the Bronze Star.  Serving in combat forces until the conclusion of the war he participated in the Battle of the Bulge and witnessed the liberation of Norhausen Concentration Camp.

The ceremonies began with the playing of the Star Spangled Banner, then Prayer by the VFW Chaplain, Welcome/Opening Comments by Medford officials, the Laying of the Wreath, Flag Raising and 21-Gun Salute and ending with the playing of Taps.  Music was provided by the Hobo Band of Pitman.

Images from the Medford parade and ceremonies...

Joe Aramondo, VFW...





Grand Marshall, William Bialec...







21-gun salute...

Copyright 2008 by Lawrence Yerkes. All Rights Reserved.