HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. (Warren County) — Community members gathered Wednesday, Nov. 11, at American Legion Blue Ridge Post 164 on Willow Grove Street for a Veterans Day ceremony honoring the men and women who have served in the U.S. military.
Mayor Jerry DiMaio joined veterans, American Legion members and community members for the ceremony, which was led by Post Commander Dennis Dyer and featured patriotic music by the Hackettstown Community Band, along with an opening prayer by the Rev. Tim Nicinski, a Marine Corps veteran and chaplain at Centenary University.
Guest speakers included DiMaio and U.S. Army Col. Micah Rue, who has more than 22 years of military experience, including operational assignments and service in Army acquisition programs.
During his military career, Rue deployed to Baghdad, Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and later served in Kandahar, Afghanistan, with the 10th Mountain Division. Most recently, he served as product manager for Soldier Weapons at Picatinny Arsenal in New Jersey.
The ceremony also included remarks from Second Vice Commander Maureen Tice and Auxiliary President Tasha McMaster.
During his remarks, DiMaio emphasized that recognizing the sacrifices of veterans should extend beyond the annual observance of Veterans Day.
“We must show our appreciation through our actions, by supporting those who have served, listening to their stories, and ensuring that their contributions are never forgotten,” DiMaio said.
Following the ceremony, attendees gathered for the 11 a.m. Ringing of the Bells of Peace, a final wreath-laying ceremony and the playing of Taps.
