TOMS RIVER, N.J. — Toms River Mayor Dan Rodrick and the Township Council are inviting members of the public to attend the annual Veterans Day Parade and Wreath Laying Ceremony in Downtown Toms River on Monday.
This year’s Ocean County Veterans Day Parade will march through downtown Toms River on Monday, November 11, starting at 9:45 a.m., with community members gathering to honor veterans and service members. Organized by the Toms River Township Veterans Commission, the event will feature a series of ceremonial tributes, recognitions, and student essay awards, followed by the placing of wreaths at the Veterans Memorial.
The day will begin with a welcome and invocation by Rev. Michael M. Mazur, setting a solemn tone for the observance of America’s local veterans.
Samantha Parker, a bugler, will lead attendees in the national anthem, supported by the Toms River High School South band. Following the anthem, former Toms River Mayor Paul Wnek will address the crowd, with Toms River Township Council President Craig Coleman providing opening remarks.
A highlight of the event will be the introduction of the parade’s Grand Marshals—veterans Arnie Boyle of the U.S. Army, Lou Vella of the U.S. Navy, and Bob Tweer of the U.S. Army.
“Their selection as Grand Marshals reflects their dedication and contributions to both the military and the Toms River community,” said Mayor Rodrick.
The American Legion Post 129 will conduct a rifle salute, and taps will be played in a final tribute to the fallen. David Corbin of the Veterans Commission will offer concluding remarks before the traditional wreath-laying ceremony.
Toms River Schools students will also be recognized as part of a Veterans Essay Contest organized by the Veterans Commission. Winners at the intermediate school level include Elena Schuler of St. Joseph Grade School in first place, Christian Leone of St. Joseph Grade School in second, and Lauren Bush of Toms River Intermediate North in third. High school winners include Nicholas Maitland of Toms River High School East in first place, Jaiden Freestone of Toms River High School South in second, and Joaquin Miranda, also from Toms River High School South, in third.
This year’s Veterans Day Parade is coordinated by acting chairman David Corbin, with committee support from members Scott Convery, Raymond Latshaw, Frank Davis, and others. Richard Monticello, the commission’s chairman, is currently deployed and unable to attend.
The community is invited to gather along the parade route to show appreciation for the service and sacrifices of Toms River’s veterans past and present.
