Veterans Day Observed in Maplewood With Grace & Determination

Maplewood's annual Veterans Day ceremony, now in its 22nd year, took place at Town Hall, emphasizing community, healing, and grace over traditional pomp.

 

The event featured speeches, historical reflections, and music, but the heart of the ceremony was the personal testimonies from veterans and their families. Attendees shared stories of loved ones who served, including a South Orange resident who recounted visiting the overseas grave of a father she never knew, lost in World War II.

 

Veterans spoke about their motivations and the sacrifices made by their families. One veteran remarked, "When you see a veteran, do not thank them for their service. Thank them for your freedom." Another added, "And if you're a vet, thank the families for their service."

 

Former Deputy Mayor and current religious educator Jamaine Cripe led the invocation and benediction, focusing on compassion and unity. "Let us feel held in the comfort of this community," Cripe urged. "May we discover new compassion for ourselves and for each other."

 

VFW 10120 Commander B. John Kaufman quoted President John F. Kennedy, stating, "Ask not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country." Kaufman emphasized the importance of unity, noting that veterans from diverse political backgrounds can serve as a model for national cohesion.

 

Historian Stuart Lutz highlighted the ingenuity of Henry Knox, the nation's first Secretary of War, who, despite limited military experience, orchestrated the transport of captured artillery from Fort Ticonderoga to Boston, leading to a pivotal victory in the fight for freedom.

 

Mayor Nancy Adams connected the themes of compassion, unity, and the pursuit of democracy. "As we gather here today, it is incumbent upon us to also remember the democracy that our veterans fought for and died for depends on each of us to keep it strong," Adams stated. She called on the community to stay informed, engaged, and to speak out when values are threatened.

 

Adams concluded by urging residents to live out the values that veterans risked everything to protect, through serving others, caring for neighbors, and ensuring that the freedoms secured continue to thrive for future generations.

 

To our veterans, thank you. We honor you. We are grateful for you. And we will never forget your service. May God bless our veterans, our community, and this country of the United States of America.