The Hamilton Township Patriotic Committee hosted their annual Armed Forces Day ceremony on May 18 at Veterans Park.
The ceremony included remarks from Mayor Kelly A. Yaede and guest speaker LTC Joel L. Martin, Commander, 3rd Battalion, 112th Field Artillery of the New Jersey Army National Guard.
In addition to musical performances from the Hamilton High School West Select Choir under the direction of Suzanne Proulx, a memorial wreath was laid in front of the M60A3 Main Battle Tank in remembrance of members of the Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation.
The official opening of the latest phase of the engraved brick walkway surrounding the M60A3 Main Battle Tank also took place.
The ceremony featured the Hamilton Township Council, the Ancient Order of Hibernians –Monsignor Crean Division #1 Pipe and Drum Band, the Hamilton Township Honor Guard, VFW Post #491 – Yardville, the New Jersey Submarine Veterans – South, Viet Nam Veterans United, the Marine Corps League, the Civil Air Patrol – Twin Pine Composite Squadron and Boy Scout Troop #91.
In her remarks, Mayor Yaede mentioned sacrifices made by individuals like Hamiltonian Sgt. Todd Mooney, whom she recognized as one of Hamilton’s Hometown Heroes at her recent Mayor’s Ball. Mooney has provided 20 years of service in the U.S. Armed Forces, which includes 16 years of service in the Air National Guard and 4 years of active duty service. Late this month, he is set to deploy again to serve our nation.
“Every day, somewhere in our world, a selfless hero like Sergeant Todd Mooney is sacrificing – so that each us here, today, can continue to possess freedom, liberty and our individual pursuits of happiness,” Mayor Yaede said in her remarks, “today, we thank our heroes, like Sergeant Mooney, and all of the other men and women who continue to protect us – allowing us to gather together in ceremonies like this.”
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