The Jersey Surf partnered with The Township of Winslow, NJ, the Winslow Township High School Marching Band and many other community groups to present a program in remembrance of all those who have lost their lives in service to our country.

Presided over by Winslow Township’s Mayor, the Honorable Barry M. Wright, the event featured colors presentation with the Pledge of Allegiance by Boy Scout Troop #251 and Cub Pack #132.

In partnership with Winslow Township High School Marching Band, The Jersey Surf performed the Star Spangled Banner for the 300-strong crowd of community members in attendance.

Followed by the ceremonial invocation by Solid Rock Baptist Church Pastor Charles Clark, Jr., additional musical performances were provided by the Winslow Township High School Chamber Choir, led by choral director Michael Doheny, including a spirited rendition of “America the Beautiful”.

The main attraction of the program was an address by keynote speaker Edwin Figueroa, Woodlynne Police Department Director of Public Safety. Figueroa has a long history of service both to New Jersey and to the nation. He retired from armed services at the rank of Major and became Chief of Police in 2003.

Figueroa gave a brief history of Memorial Day, which started as a day of remembrance of those lost while fighting in the Civil War and was then known as Decoration Day. During World War I, the holiday evolved to commemorate American military personnel who died in all wars.

In his remarks, Figueroa remembered not only the Americans who have died in combat but also veterans who have died from combat injuries, especially those who have suffered from warfare chemicals used in the Vietnam War.

The Surf was proud to participate in the event and looks forward to commemorating future Memorial Days with the citizens of Winslow Township.