TOMS RIVER, N.J. – With the cold Barnegat Bay breeze sweeping across Shelter Cove Park this weekend, Mayor Dan Rodrick announced plans for a new veterans memorial — a towering monument dedicated to the township’s fallen heroes and all who have served in defense of the nation.
The announcement came during Veterans Day ceremonies, where Rodrick called the project “a tribute to courage, sacrifice, and the unbreakable spirit of Toms River’s veterans.”
He said the memorial will stand near the water’s edge at Shelter Cove, surrounded by a field of American flags and illuminated at night — a glowing reminder of the freedoms secured through generations of service.
Key Points
- Toms River will build a new veterans monument at Shelter Cove Park
- The memorial will feature engraved names of fallen local service members
- Mayor Dan Rodrick says the illuminated display will be “a radiant beacon of remembrance”
A monument by the bay
Rodrick described the planned memorial as a “magnificent and enduring symbol” of gratitude, engraved with the names of men and women from Toms River who gave their lives in service. “Each veteran represents a story of sacrifice, commitment, and bravery,” he said. “This monument will make sure those stories are never forgotten.”
The monument’s location — overlooking Barnegat Bay — was chosen for both its beauty and visibility.
“What better place to unveil this symbol of respect than at the beautiful beach in Shelter Cove?” Rodrick said. “From the water, it will shine as a radiant beacon of light symbolizing not just our freedom, but the enduring spirit of America.”
A path of remembrance
In addition to the monument, Shelter Cove Park will soon feature a new display of American flags lining Bay Avenue.
The row of flags will begin at the park’s clearing and lead toward the monument site. “This display will guide us toward a space of reflection and remembrance,” Rodrick said, “a place where we can connect with the sacrifices made for our freedom.”
The monument will be visible from the Barnegat Bay.
Honoring service and community
The project will be funded and developed by the township under Rodrick’s administration, with details on the design and completion timeline expected later this winter.
The mayor emphasized that the memorial is meant to bring the community together in shared appreciation.
“Let us come together as a community to honor our veterans, keep their memories alive, and pass on their legacy to future generations,” Rodrick said.