NEW JERSEY VIETNAM VETERANS’ MEMORIAL FOUNDATION HONORS MILITARY SERVICE MEMBERS WITH VETERANS DAY CEREMONY

For Immediate Release:
11/4/16

Ceremony Special Guest and Keynote Speaker Steven Fulop, Mayor of Jersey City.

Holmdel, NJ (November 4, 2016) - The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation will host its annual Veterans Day Ceremony at 11 a.m. Friday, November 11 at the Memorial, 1 Memorial Lane, Holmdel, NJ. The event is open to the public, Veterans, and their families.

Organizations from throughout the State will lay wreaths as part of the ceremony honoring veterans.

Executive Director, Bill Linderman, announced Mayor Steven Fulop as the keynote speaker at this year’s ceremony, “The Foundation is pleased to have Mayor Fulop address our Veterans Day attendees. As a veteran of the Iraq War and a public servant, he’s got an important perspective and we’re looking forward to his message.”

Steven Michael Fulop was elected the 49th Mayor of Jersey City, New Jersey on May 14, 2013. He is routinely hailed as a ‘smart, progressive leader’, responsible for making Jersey City the first city in the state -- and the 6th in the country -- to ensure paid sick leave. Fulop is also credited with passing legislation that encourages small business development, public safety reform and promoting green building and diversity through practical, sustainable policy.

The son of Romanian immigrants, Steven grew up in a Jewish family living in Edison, New Jersey. He graduated from Binghamton University in 1999, and after graduation worked for Goldman Sachs in both their Chicago and Manhattan offices. Steven was working in lower Manhattan on the morning of September 11, 2001.

A few weeks after seeing the first plane strike the Twin Towers, Fulop took a leave from Goldman Sachs and joined the United States Marine Corps. He was deployed to Iraq in January 2003 and served as part of the 6th Engineer Support Battalion, completing his service in 2006 with the rank of Corporal.

After his service in Iraq, Steven returned to banking, earned his MBA and entered politics, serving on the Jersey City Council for eight years before being elected Mayor.

In Memory Program: Veterans from Across New Jersey Honored

Each year during the Veterans Day ceremony, five Veterans are inducted into the Foundation’s In-Memory Program, a special recognition that honors those who served and later died as a result of complications from their Tour. This year’s inductees include: Ralph C. DeJulia of Saddle Brook, Richard Hatem of Wall, Richard Tuttle of Elizabeth, Martin Vaccaro, Jr. of Allenhurst, and Robert Vecchio of Hillsborough.

About Veterans Day

There are approximately 20 million veterans living in the United States, men and women from every state and territory who served honorably in their nation’s armed forces. Veterans Day honors all veterans, whether living or deceased. Across the nation and in every community, it is an opportunity to give special thanks and show support for those who have defended and protected our nation, often at great personal sacrifice.

Initially established as Armistice Day, it commemorated the signing of the Treaty of Versailles that ended WWI. After the end of World War II and the Korean War, this national day of celebration was renamed Veterans Day by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, a Five Star General in the US Army, to honor American veterans of all wars. Veterans Day is always celebrated on the 11th day of November, and in 2001, Congress passed a resolution that designated the week of November 11 National Veterans Awareness Week.

About New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation

The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation oversees the operation of the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial and Vietnam Era Museum and Educational Center. The Memorial is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The Museum and Educational Center is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The Memorial is a fitting tribute to the valor displayed by New Jersey residents who never returned from Southeast Asia. It commemorates the courage shown by all who served and continue to serve in America’s Armed Forces. Its companion project, the Vietnam Era Museum & Educational Center, is a respected, national resource that presents factual and unbiased information about the Era.

The Memorial and the Museum and Educational Center attract visitors from across New Jersey, the US and from around the world. Compelling exhibits present a balanced perspective into the politics, personalities and the domestic and international policies that shaped -- and were shaped by -- this remarkable era in global history. School students, community groups, citizens from all walks of life, and especially veterans and their families, all are welcomed by a staff of dedicated professionals and volunteers working together to provide visitors with a moving and memorable experience.

For more information, visit www.njvvmf.org.

Salute to Patriotism Gala Celebrates 21st Anniversary of the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE



The Gala on October 27 will honor New Jersey Senate President Senator Steve Sweeney for his support of Veterans

Holmdel, NJ (September 15, 2016) – This year’s New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation Salute to Patriotism Gala will celebrate the 21st anniversary of the Memorial and honor Senator Steve Sweeney for his support of veterans and active duty military. The gala will be held Thursday, October 27, with a reception at 6 p.m. followed by dinner at 7 p.m., at the Eagle Oaks Golf and Country Club, 20 Shore Oaks Drive, Farmingdale, NJ. Since 1995, the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial has provided a place to honor those who have served and continue to serve our country. The Memorial is a place “To Remember, To Heal, To Honor” through ceremonies and outreach programs. The adjacent Vietnam Era Museum and Educational Center is the only museum of its kind in America.

Senator Steve Sweeney, the President of the New Jersey Senate since 2010, has represented the Third Legislative District since 2002, and has been a leader on important state issues, including fighting to improve the lives of our state’s Veterans. As Senate President, he has dedicated himself to making sure New Jersey Veterans are treated with dignity and respect. The Senator oversaw the passage and enactment of numerous pieces of legislation benefitting Veterans and their families including:

• Veteran to Veteran Peer Support Program telephone hotline
• Military Dependents Scholarship Fund Act
• Veterans Haven Council to protect Veterans against the danger of homelessness
• Tax and incentive programs for Veterans and Veteran-owned businesses

Senator Sweeney has long believed that Veterans are among the most dedicated and hardworking individuals, and fought for the Helmets to Hardhats Program that assists Veterans looking for work in the construction industry, particularly through a partnership with the Turnpike Authority. To make sure Veterans receive the public recognition for their sacrifice that they deserve, Senator Sweeney successfully called for legislation and resolutions to rename several roadways in honor of our state’s military men and women, including designating a portion of Route 47 in Glassboro as “South Jersey Vietnam Veterans Highway.”

While serving as Gloucester County Freeholder Director, Senator Sweeney committed himself to making sure Veterans had a strong advocate. Some of his most significant accomplishments include creating a full-time Veterans Affairs Office, opening a health clinic for Veterans, building the Gloucester County Veterans Memorial Cemetery and beginning the acclaimed Wall of Heroes Memorial to honor those men and women killed or missing in action in service to the United States Military.


The Gala will feature an open bar, hors d’oeuvres, dinner, silent auction and live music. Tickets are $200 for individuals and $400 for couples. Dress is business attire. Moderator for the evening is Jack Ford, noted legal analyst.

Michael Warner is the Gala Chair, and Gala Vice Chairs are Senator Dawn Addiego, Senator James Beach, Bobby Briant, Jr., Duane Sarmiento, and Sheriff Whip Wilson. The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation Executive Director is Bill Linderman and the Board of Trustees are Chairman Clark W. Martin, Bobby Briant, Jr., Roy D. Budd, Harry Chowansky III, Francis P. Crotty, James S. Cusick, Beverly Fedorko-Ott, Thomas P. Ford, Jess Le Vine, Robert W. Looby, Frank A. Messineo, Gordon S. Pingicer, W. Peter Ragan, Sr., John C. Ricker, Harry Sassaman, Jack Tully, Michael Warner, Gilbert “Whip” Wilson, and Herb Worthington.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 732-335-0033 or visit www.njvvmf.org.

NEW JERSEY VIETNAM VETERANS’ MEMORIAL FOUNDATION HONORS POW/MIA GOLD STAR MOTHERS SEPTEMBER 16

The ceremony on September 16 will remember those missing in action, those returned and those still unaccounted for from our nation’s wars.

Holmdel, NJ (September 9, 2016) – The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Foundation will hold its annual POW/MIA Gold Star Mothers Recognition Day Ceremony on Friday, September 16, 2016 at 11 a.m. at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial, 1 Memorial Lane, Holmdel, NJ, on the grounds of the PNC Bank Arts Center. The ceremony will honor America’s prisoners of war, those missing in action, those returned and those still unaccounted for from our nation’s wars.

Judith Tapper, President of New Jersey Gold Star Mothers, will be the guest speaker at the event. Judith lost her son, Navy Seal David Tapper, in Afghanistan in 2003.

The Gold Star Mothers provide support to American mothers who have lost children in the line of duty of the United States Armed Forces. They focus on providing emotional support to their members, volunteering with veterans and veteran’s hospitals, and fostering patriotism and respect for members of the Armed Forces. September 25, 2016 is National POW/MIA Recognition Day and Gold Star Mothers Day is the last Sunday of September.

Ken and Helen Gurbisz, who lost their son Jim in 2005 in Iraq, have been extremely active in the Gold Star Mothers organization and worked to erect a Gold Star Family Monument at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial. The monument was dedicated September, 29, 2015.

“People don’t realize what happens when you suddenly lose a family member,” said Ken. “It’s important for all groups to bring attention to this for those who have suffered this tremendous loss.”

The POW/MIA Gold Star Mothers Ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. at the Memorial and is open to the public. John Ricker, a Trustee of the Foundation, will lead the ceremony and the color guard will be from the Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 12. Chaplain Joe Formola will give the invocation and benediction. Wreaths will be laid at the Memorial by various organizations.

Museum admission is free for all visitors on September 16. The museum is located adjacent to the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial off the Garden State Parkway at exit 116 in Holmdel, N.J. The museum was recently renovated with an update to the sepia mural, a timeline featuring iconic people and events that formed the fabric of America during the tumultuous Vietnam Era. Thanks to Governor Christie Todd Whitman, and her late husband John, as well as the NJ Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, the Foundation was able to replace the 20-year-old faded timeline with new technology that will last for 100 years.

The memorial is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and is free to visit. The Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information on the Memorial or Museum, please call 732- 335-0033 or visit www.njvvmf.org.

NJVVMF Memorial Day Ceremony, May 30

The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation will honor veterans with a Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday, May 30, 2016 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., 1 Memorial Lane, Holmdel, Exit 116 off the Garden State Parkway. The Vietnam Era Museum and Educational Center will be open to the public free of charge from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

NJVVMF Board of Directors Trustee and Camden County Sheriff Gilbert (Whip) Wilson will preside over the Ceremony and the Lieutenant Governor of New Jersey Kim Guadagno is the Special Guest Speaker. The program will include a presentation of wreaths by various area organizations, music by The Rock N’ Roll Chorus; a presentation of colors by the United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps, Naval Weapons Station Earle; and an invocation by Joe Formola, Chaplain of the New Jersey State Council of Vietnam Veterans of America.

During the ceremony, the New Jersey Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial Foundation will award two scholarships to high school seniors from New Jersey who plan to further their education either at a college, university or trade/technical school. This year’s scholarship recipients are Matthew Falco of Cranford High School and Teresa Ngo of Biotechnology High School.

An “In Memory” program will honor those who served in Vietnam and returned home, but later died as a result of their tour. This year, five names will be inducted.

We invite you to attend the ceremony.

Sister of WWII Soldier To Receive NJ Medal During Remembrance Day Ceremony

Marie Listen will receive the medal for her brother, Neil Lucey, who died in the attack on Pearl Harbor

Holmdel, NJ (April 20, 2016) – The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial will hold a Remembrance Day Ceremony May 7, 2016, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., 1 Memorial Lane, Holmdel, NJ, Exit 116 off the Garden State Parkway. Marie Liston, the sister of a WWII Navy Seaman who died in the attack on Pearl Harbor, will accept a medal on her brother’s behalf.

Neil Lucey was just 18-years-old when he joined the United States Navy. He reported for duty March 12, 1940. Just 19 months later he would lose his life at Pearl Harbor, two days after his 20th birthday. His body is one of 1,177 entombed in the USS Arizona.

Now, 75 years later, Neil’s sister will accept a medal on his behalf during a Remembrance Day ceremony at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation on May 7, 2016.

Marie Lucey Liston is 101 and lives in Brick, NJ. She was born in 1914 in New York City and is the oldest of five children. Her mother died in childbirth in 1924 and the siblings were sent to live with relatives in Perth Amboy. Their father, Timothy Lucey, worked for the railroad and would visit when he could.

The death of Neil, who was nicknamed “Buddy,” was hard on the family. The first communication from the US Navy came on December 20, 1941, and informed the family that Neil was missing in action while the search for survivors at Pearl Harbor continued. The official death notice came on January 30, 1942 when it was determined that Neil had been one of those lost on the USS Arizona on December 7, 1941 after the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor.

He was awarded a Purple Heart posthumously for his valiant service as a Seaman First Class with the Navy.

Neil was the first person killed in action from Perth Amboy in WWII. The city dedicated a park in his name and the park was renovated and rededicated in 2000.

Gordon Pingicer is on the board of the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation, and is Marie’s son-in-law.

“This medal means so much to the family,” Gordon said. “Just the recognition that New Jersey gives to people who served is very significant.”

Remembrance Day was created by legislation in 1991 as a day in New Jersey to honor those who served in the military during the Vietnam War from 1959 to 1975. More than 200,000 New Jersey residents served in the armed forces during that time.

Visit www.njvvmf.org for more information.



About New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation
The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial, dedicated May 7, 1995, strives to encourage and foster patriotism and provide for recognition of the sacrifices, courage and valor of the New Jersey Veterans of the Vietnam Era. The Vietnam Era Museum & Educational Center, dedicated in September 1998, strives to encourage and foster a thorough understanding of the Vietnam era, including the political, historical, social, cultural and military aspects that affected the United States, especially New Jersey. For more information, visit www.njvvmf.org.

Salute to Patriotism Gala Celebrates 20th Anniversary of New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial

Holmdel, NJ (September 25, 2015) – The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation 20th Anniversary Salute to Patriotism Gala will be held October 29, 2015 at Eagle Oaks Golf and Country Club. The event will begin with a reception at 6 p.m., followed by dinner and a program at 7 p.m. The Gala will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial. Since 1995, the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial has provided a place to honor those who have served and continue to serve our country. The Memorial is a place “To Remember, To Heal, To Honor” through ceremonies and outreach programs.

“I believe that we cannot thank our men and women veterans enough for all the dedication, sacrifice, and strength they display while serving our country. This Memorial brings both recognition and a deep appreciation for their bravery that only a few can exhibit,” said Lt. Governor Kim Guadagno. “Here in New Jersey, we come together not only as a state or community, but as a family that will forever support our military.”

The Gala will honor Lieutenant Governor Kim Guadagno and Peter Cancro, founder and CEO of Jersey Mike’s Franchise Systems. Both honorees have had a profound impact on the state of New Jersey and support veterans and active duty military service men and women.

As a proud military mother of her Air Force Academy graduate son, Kevin, Lt. Governor Guadagno has great empathy for active duty service men and women. She headed Military Appreciation Month in May and sponsored the “Dress Our Vets” campaign to provide professional clothing for service-women transitioning from the military to business in New Jersey. As Chair of the New Jersey Military Installation Growth and Development Task Force, she is responsible for securing the long-term growth of New Jersey’s military bases and U.S. Coast Guard installations. She also serves as Secretary of State overseeing the Governor’s Business Development, its $40 billion tourism industry as well as administering programs related to arts, culture and history.

Peter Cancro’s secret to success is his philosophy of “giving.” He believes that making a sub sandwich and making a difference can be one and the same. Charities, hospitals, school systems and numerous individuals have benefited from his support. In March 2015, Jersey Mike’s celebrated its 5th Annual “Month of Giving,” a national fundraising campaign, raising more than $3.1 million for 120+ local charities. Since the program started five years ago, Jersey Mike’s and its generous customers have raised more than $8 million. All year round, through a variety of programs, Jersey Mike’s franchisees across the country support the military and their families.

The Gala will feature an open bar, hors d’Oeuvres, dinner, silent auction and live music. Tickets are $175 for individuals and $350 for couples. Dress is business attire. Moderator for the evening is Jack Ford, noted legal analyst.

Honorees Lt. Governor Kim Guadagno and Peter Cancro are Gala Co-Chairs. Gala Vice Chairs are Linda Kellner, John Reinhardt, Anita Roselle, Harry Sassaman and Carol Stillwell. The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation Board of Trustees are Chairman Clark W. Martin, Robert Briant, Jr., Roy D. Budd, Harry Chowansky III, Francis P. Crotty, James S. Cusick, Beverly Fedorko-Ott, Thomas P. Ford, Ann Kelsey,
Jess Le Vine, Robert W. Looby, James Petillo, Gordon S. Pingicer, W. Peter Ragan, Sr., John C. Ricker, Jack Tully, Michael Warner, Gilbert “Whip” Wilson, Herb Worthington.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 732-335-0033 or visit www.njvvmf.org.

New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Foundation To Dedicate Monument for Fallen Soldiers

The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation will hold a dedication ceremony for the Gold Star Family Monument Sunday, September 27 from 4-6 p.m. The dedication ceremony will follow the New Jersey Run For The Fallen, which will end at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial in Holmdel.

Ken and Helen Gurbisz were the driving force behind the building of this monument, meant to honor the men and women who have fallen in all wars and the families they left behind. The Gurbisz’s lost their son Jim in Afghanistan in 2005.

“This is a place where, if you lost a loved one, you can sit on a bench and contemplate,” said Ken. “It’s a place of calm. The entire New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial is a place of peace.”

Gold Star Families are those families who have lost spouses, parents and immediate family members of the Armed Forces to combat. The monument is meant to be a place of reflection and peace.

The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial brings a fitting acknowledgment of the valor displayed by the New Jersey residents who never returned from Southeast Asia. It commemorates the courage shown by all who served in America’s Armed Forces during the years of the Vietnam conflict. The Memorial is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and is free to visit. For more information, call 732-335-0033 or visit www.njvvmf.org.

NEW JERSEY VIETNAM VETERANS’ MEMORIAL FOUNDATION POW/MIA GOLD STAR MOTHERS CEREMONY HONORS THOSE LOST IN ALL WARS

The ceremony on September 18 will remember those missing in action, those returned and those still unaccounted for from our nation’s wars.

Holmdel, N.J. (September 4, 2015) – The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Foundation will hold its annual POW/MIA Gold Star Mothers Recognition Day Ceremony on Friday, September 18, 2015 at 11 a.m. at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial, 1 Memorial Lane, Holmdel, NJ, on the grounds of the PNC Bank Arts Center. The ceremony will honor America’s prisoners of war and those missing in action, those returned and those still unaccounted for from our nation’s wars.

The Gold Star Mothers provide support to American mothers who have lost children in the line of duty of the United States Armed Forces. They focus on providing emotional support to their members, volunteering with veterans and veteran’s hospitals, and fostering patriotism and respect for members of the Armed Forces. September 18 is National POW/MIA Recognition Day and Gold Star Mothers Day is the last Sunday of September.

Speakers for the ceremony are Ken and Helen Gurbisz, who lost their son Jim in 2005. Jim was a captain in the United States Army and was serving a tour overseas in Iraq. The couple has been extremely active in the Gold Star Mothers organization and has worked to erect a Gold Star Family Monument at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial. The monument will be dedicated September, 29, 2015.

“People don’t realize what happens when you suddenly lose a family member,” said Ken. “It’s important for all groups to bring attention to this for those who have suffered this tremendous loss.”

Ken and Helen Gurbisz

The POW/MIA Gold Star Mothers Ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. at the Memorial and is open to the public. Herb Worthington, a Trustee of the Foundation, will lead the ceremony and the color guard will be from the Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 12. Chaplain Joe Formola will give the invocation and benediction. Wreaths will be laid at the Memorial by various organizations.

Museum admission is free for all visitors on September 18. The museum is located adjacent to the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial off the Garden State Parkway at exit 116 in Holmdel, N.J. The memorial is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and is free to visit. The Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information on the Memorial or Museum, please call (732) 335-0033 or visit www.njvvmf.org.

Vietnam Veteran Wins Local Phase Of National Writing Competition

For Immediate Release:
6/23/15

Carl Burns

Holmdel, N.J. (June 23, 2015) — Carl Burns, a Vietnam veteran residing in Manalapan, N.J. won first place in the New Jersey Veterans Administration local phase of the National Veterans Creative Arts Competition. His essay, “Hangar Crew,” tells the story of a group of veterans who came together to restore a Bell-UH-1D helicopter (“Huey”), left in a field in New Jersey for 20 years, forgotten by time. The essay has moved on to the national portion of the competition. The winner will be announced at the end of June.

“I wrote this for the guys, it’s not for me,” said Carl. “That’s what makes it so special.”

Carl tells the unlikely story of the restoration of the helicopter, a “hunk of metal with broken windshields and missing parts.” The Huey eventually found a home, mounted and displayed at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial in Holmdel.

For 14 months, a group of veterans from Vietnam and Afghanistan, along with the occasional visit from grandsons, daughters and others, met each Monday, painstakingly and lovingly restoring the once forgotten piece of machinery that was such an important part of Carl’s life story.

“Once we got the helicopter, we never got a ‘no’ from anyone,” said Carl. “Needed parts magically showed up. No contractor or supplier said no to our requests.”

“Vietnam was full of the good, the bad and the ugly,” said Carl. “This is nothing but the good.”

Carl is no stranger to writing. “Centaurs in Vietnam: Untold Stories of the First Year,” was published in 2008 and is full of tales from Carl’s first year in Vietnam as an air cavalry helicopter pilot and the troop based at Cu Chi.

The Huey became the symbol of U.S. combat forces in Vietnam. In country, more than 12,000 helicopters served alongside our troops. The 7,000 Hueys that served flew 9,713,762 hours. At home, millions watched them fly on nightly news reports. The Huey is an iconic image of the Vietnam Era and a fitting display at the Vietnam Era Museum & Educational Center.

The restored Huey was dedicated on May 7, 2014, the helicopter’s 50th birthday. It is a fitting tribute to all who have served our country, as well as a unique and historically important teaching tool for the thousands of students and visitors who experience the Memorial and Museum each year.

Interested in seeing the newly-restored Huey? Visit at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial and Museum on the grounds of the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, New Jersey. Free, guided tours of the memorial are offered the first Saturday of each month at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Tours are also available by request. Visit www.njvvmf.org for more information.

For a $350 donation, a personal message can be engraved on one of the pavers within the Plaza. Each personal message is a maximum of 3 lines with 14 characters per line. Proceeds from paver sales support programming at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial and Vietnam Era Museum & Educational Center. For more information, call (732) 335-0033.

About New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Foundation

The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation offers a meaningful and engaging experience that recognizes the sacrifice, courage and valor of Vietnam Veterans and encourages and fosters a thorough understanding of the Vietnam Era including the political, historical, social, cultural and military aspects, which affected the United States, and especially New Jersey.

The Foundation operates and manages the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial and the adjacent Vietnam Era Museum & Educational Center located at 1 Memorial Lane off Exit 116 (PNC Bank Arts Center) in Holmdel, NJ. The Memorial honors all those who served our country and state during the Vietnam War, especially the 1,563 New Jerseyans who did not return home. It is a powerful and fitting tribute to their sacrifice. The Memorial is open 24 hours, seven days a week. The Vietnam Era Museum & Educational Center is the first educational center and museum of its kind in the United States. Dedicated in September 1998, the Museum is devoted solely to gaining an understanding of the conflict in Southeast Asia and the surrounding political strife in America. For hours and directions, visit www.njvvmf.org.

NJ Vietnam Veterans' Memorial To Host Memorial Day Ceremony, May 25

Holmdel, N.J. (May 19, 2015) — The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation will hold a Memorial Day Ceremony Monday, May 25 at 11 a.m. The Vietnam Era Museum and Educational Center will be open to the public free of charge from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Chairman of the Board of Directors, Maj. General (USAF Ret.) Clark Martin will preside over the Memorial Day Ceremony. The program will include a presentation of wreaths by various area organizations, music by The RockNRoll Chorus, a presentation of colors by the NJ National Guard Medical Command, an invocation by Joe Formola, Chaplain of the New Jersey State Council of Vietnam Veterans of America and Dylan De Simone, grandson of Alfred De Simone who is honored on the Memorial, will recite the Pledge of Allegiance.

During the ceremony, the New Jersey Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial Foundation will award two scholarships to high school seniors from New Jersey who plan to further their education either at a college, university or trade/technical school. This year’s scholarship recipients are Ian Lettire of Phillipsburg High School and Allison Smith of Newton High School.

An “In Memory” program will honor those who served in Vietnam and returned home, but later died as a result of their tour. This year, six names will be inducted: Frank C. Moranz of Jersey City, NJ; Francisco T. Primiano of Old Bridge, NJ; John L. Patryk of Mt. Ephraim, NJ; Franklin A. Re of Cranford, NJ; Frank Tarantino, Jr. of Roselle Park, NJ; and Frank Farrell of Freehold, NJ. Visitors can also see the newly installed pavers on our Memorial Walkway and Huey Plaza. Any pavers purchased within the last year are now installed.

The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial is located at 1 Memorial Lane in Holmdel, NJ (Exit 116 PNC Bank Arts Center). For more information, visit www.njvvmf.org.

About New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Foundation
The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation offers a meaningful and engaging experience that recognizes the sacrifice, courage and valor of Vietnam Veterans and encourages and fosters a thorough understanding of the Vietnam Era including the political, historical, social, cultural and military aspects, which affected the United States, and especially New Jersey.

The Foundation operates and manages the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial and the adjacent Vietnam Era Museum & Educational Center located at 1 Memorial Lane off Exit 116 (PNC Bank Arts Center) in Holmdel, NJ. The Memorial honors all those who served our country and state during the Vietnam War, especially the 1,563 New Jerseyans who did not return home. It is a powerful and fitting tribute to their sacrifice. The Memorial is open 24 hours, seven days a week. The Vietnam Era Museum & Educational Center is the first educational center and museum of its kind in the United States. Dedicated in September 1998, the Museum is devoted solely to gaining an understanding of the conflict in Southeast Asia and the surrounding political strife in America. For hours and directions, visit www.njvvmf.org.

The NJ Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Foundation Honors the 40th Anniversary of Operation Babylift

Saturday, April 25, 2015, Vietnam Era Museum, 1 Memorial Lane, Holmdel, N.J., 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

HOLMDEL, N.J. -- On Saturday, April 25, 2015, the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation, in conjunction with Vietnam Babylift, will honor the 40th Anniversary of Operation Babylift from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Foundation's Vietnam Era Museum located at 1 Memorial Lane in Holmdel, N.J. The free event is open to the general public. The Vietnam Babylift, or “Operation Babylift,” was a humanitarian effort that took place in April 1975, when over 2,547 babies, toddlers and children under the age of 10 were evacuated from Vietnam to the United States, Canada and several European countries. Special guests include individuals from around the globe who participated in and had their lives changed by Operation Babylift.

Jen Noone and Brian J. Harms, May, 1975
 (Credit: USAF photographer) 

The free all-day program includes a VVA "Liberty Bell" Chapter 21-Gun Salute and Tribute, Plaque Gifting with C-5A Casualties Name Reading, and select cuttings/scenes from the play “Children of the April Rain" produced by Infinite Variety Productions, NYC, Ashley Adelman, Founder. Hall of Fame Speaker and New York Times best-selling author LeAnn Thieman will share photos and her story of Operation Babylift. Thieman is the author of This Must Be My Brother, and her latest book, Chicken Soup for the Soul, The Joy of Adoption has 5 stories from Operation Babylift families.

There will also be an open forum, Q & A, Benediction, art and artifacts exhibit, showing of docu-films, a book signing and reception. Visit www.njvvmf.org for a timeline of the day's activities.

The play “Children of the April Rain” is based on oral histories and memoirs of the Fall of Saigon. It reenacts the events that took place in April 1975 by the heroes involved in Operation Babylift. The play is co-authored by several original Babylift participants, including William Bryant Doty, Lana Mae Noone and LeAnn Thieman.

The event organizer Lana Mae Noone and her husband Byron adopted an Operation Babylift baby named Heather who died just a month after her arrival to the United States due to illness. The night before her death, Noone made a promise to her that Operation Babylift would not be forgotten. Even as they mourned, the Noones took in another child —the very last baby taken from Vietnam, and the very last baby up for adoption. Today, their daughter Jennifer Nguyen Noone is 40 years old. Lana and her daughter Jennifer appeared on the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN), “Searching For” on April 18, 2011. The program shared Jennifer's journey and also paid tribute to the Americans who took part in the humanitarian Operation Babylift.

“I am honored to coordinate the Vietnam Babylift 40th Anniversary Event at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial,” says Lana Noone, Operation Babylift 40th Anniversary Event Coordinator. “The Memorial has been an outstanding venue for previous Babylift Programs and I am very grateful for the continued support on this momentous 40th Anniversary and play performance.”

For more information on the Vietnam Babylift, visit www.vietnambabylift.org. For more information on the 40th Anniversary Operation Babylift event and the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Foundation, visit www.njvvmf.org.

About New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Foundation

The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation offers a meaningful and engaging experience that recognizes the sacrifice, courage and valor of Vietnam Veterans and encourages and fosters a thorough understanding of the Vietnam Era including the political, historical, social, cultural and military aspects, which affected the United States, and especially New Jersey. To support the Foundation, visit www.njvvmf.org.

Timeline of the Day’s Events

• 10-10:30: Opening Remarks, Meditation Garden
• VVA "Liberty Bell" Chapter 21-Gun Salute and Tribute Plaque Gifting with C-5A Casualties Name Reading
• 10:45-12:15- readings from “Children of the April Rain” followed by author and actor meet and greet
• 1:00-3:00-Speakers Panel and slide presentation 3:00-3:30-Q & A Panel and Benediction
• 3:30- Continuation of meet and greet
• All Day: Book Signings and author meet and greet in lobby

NJVVMF To Hold Free Tours Led By Vietnam Veteran Tour Guides

The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Foundation (NJVVMF) will hold free tours of the Memorial led by volunteer Vietnam Veteran Tour Guides on the first Saturday of every month from February 7 through April 11, 2015, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. at 1 Memorial Lane in Holmdel, NJ (Garden State Parkway Exit 116). Experience history with those who lived it. No appointments or reservations are necessary. Tour groups meet in the Museum lobby and tours last approximately one hour.

(NJVVMF tour guide Jim McGinnis)

The Vietnam Veteran Tour Guides for Saturday, February 7 are Jim McGinnis, who served with the U.S. Army 196th Light Infantry Brigade 1966-67, and Dick Furlong, who served with the U.S. Army 198th Infantry Brigade 1966-69.

High school seniors applying for scholarships through the NJVVMF are invited to attend the tours. For more information on the scholarship program and to download the application form, visit www.njvvmf.org.


About the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Foundation

The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Foundation offers a meaningful and engaging experience that recognizes the sacrifice, courage and valor of Vietnam Veterans and encourages and fosters a thorough understanding of the Vietnam Era including the political, historical, social, cultural and military aspects, which affected the United States, and especially New Jersey. www.njvvmf.org