Jack McGreevey with Daughter, Sharon
In our last issue dated 6/5/19, our editorial was about remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. This year marked the 75th Anniversary of D-Day. It was especially moving to see survivors of that day, many who were in wheelchairs struggling to stand up to salute the flag. It was especially heartwarming to hear and see President Donald Trump recognize, embrace, and give thanks on behalf of a grateful nation to what is appropriately named: “Our Greatest Generation.”
I read a news account when one soldier arrived the day after the attack and unfortunately had to use the supplies of those who were deceased or badly wounded on Normandy Beach. He said what he saw was indescribable. Just remember, the technology we have now did not exist back then.
Also on the front cover of our June 5th issue was a photo taken on the U.S.S. New York which was open for tours during Fleet Week in New York Harbor. We were able to go on this tour courtesy of Jack McGreevey who contacted us. He also said he wanted to invite my father. Unfortunately, I had to tell him my father had passed away in 2010. I told him that I (Carolyn Maxwell) and Katherine Massopust would be honored to go on the bus which was provided by Senator Joseph Vitale who has done this for several years. The bus was filled with special honored guests (our Veterans).
Prior to leaving the Woodbridge Community Center, light refreshments were provided and Jack McGreevey, Senator Joseph Vitale, Asm. Craig Coughlin, and Woodbridge Mayor John McCormac made brief statements thanking our Veterans. McCormac stated this was the was his first time he was taking this trip. He was joined by two Woodbridge Council Members and some Department Heads.
Although some of the people we met were perfect strangers, we all became like family coming back home. The most memorable image to me was the site of the huge American Flags in one of the large cargo holds on board of the U.S.S. New York. That powerful feeling made me realize how fortunate I was to be born in the United States. I’m even more grateful to those brave men and women who defended our country to make it, in my opinion the greatest country in the world. C.M.
President Trump at the 75th Anniversary of D-Day Ceremony in Normandy, France *NBC News Source
D-Day Invasion of Normandy *AP
