Thousands lined West Somerset Ave., the main throughfare in Raritan, for the 44th annual John Basilone Memorial Parade last Sunday, September 21.
The parade kicked off at 1 p.m. under sunny skies.
Roy Ruffa was one of two Grand Marshals for the parade. Ruffa, 100, served in the Army Air Corp during World War II in the Pacific Theater.
Benjamin Jackson was one of the two Grand Marshals for the parade. Marshall, 103, served in the Marine Corp during World War II in the Pacific Theater.
Dozens of military units, military-related support organizations, civic groups and marching bands participated in the parade.
Among the marchers was the Marine Corp League, a non-profit that supports active-duty marines as well as veterans, retired, and reserve marines.
One of the highlights of the parade was a flyover in World War II-era aircraft by the Jersey Jerks, a popular air show attraction.
Basilone is a recipient of the Medal of Honor for his heroism at the battle of Guadalcanal, and of the Navy Cross for similar bravery at the Battle of Iwo Jima where he lost his life.
Raritan hosts the Basilone Memorial Foundation’s 5K race and Memorial Parade each year. Proceeds from the two events go to military-focused non-profits.
