As Memorial Day approaches, people all over the United States are preparing to honor and remember those who have served and sacrificed for their country. In Monmouth County, New Jersey, this day holds a special significance as it is home to many military families and veterans. The county is located in the central part of the state and is known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and strong sense of community.
The History of Memorial Day
Before we dive into how people in Monmouth County celebrate Memorial Day, let's take a brief look at the history of this holiday. Originally known as Decoration Day, Memorial Day was first observed after the Civil War to honor Union soldiers who had died in battle.Over time, it evolved into a day to remember all Americans who have died while serving in the military. In 1971, Memorial Day became an official federal holiday and is now observed on the last Monday in May. It is a day for Americans to come together and pay tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
Parades and Ceremonies
One of the most common ways people in Monmouth County celebrate Memorial Day is through parades and ceremonies. The county hosts several parades throughout the weekend leading up to Memorial Day, with the largest one taking place in Red Bank. This parade has been a tradition for over 150 years and features marching bands, military units, and floats. In addition to parades, there are also various ceremonies held throughout the county to honor fallen soldiers.One of the most notable is the ceremony at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial in Holmdel. This memorial pays tribute to the 1,563 New Jersey residents who lost their lives during the Vietnam War.
Beach and BBQs
Memorial Day weekend also marks the unofficial start of summer, and many people in Monmouth County take advantage of the warm weather by heading to the beach. The county has over 50 miles of coastline, making it a popular destination for beachgoers. On Memorial Day, you can find families and friends gathering at the beach for picnics, games, and relaxation. Another popular way to celebrate Memorial Day in Monmouth County is through backyard BBQs.Many residents take advantage of the long weekend to host cookouts with friends and family. It's a time to come together, enjoy good food, and remember the true meaning of the holiday.
Memorial Day Run/Walk
For those looking to stay active on Memorial Day, Monmouth County hosts a Run/Walk event in Long Branch. This event is open to all ages and fitness levels and offers a 5K run or a 1-mile walk. Participants can also choose to run or walk in honor of a fallen soldier or veteran. The event raises money for various charities that support military families and veterans.It's a great way to not only honor those who have served but also give back to the community.
Visiting Historic Sites
Monmouth County is rich in history, and there are several sites that hold significance for Memorial Day. One of these is Allaire Village in Wall Township, which was once a thriving iron-producing community in the 1800s. During Memorial Day weekend, the village hosts a Civil War reenactment that includes battle demonstrations, period music, and living history exhibits. Another historic site worth visiting on Memorial Day is Fort Hancock in Sandy Hook. This former military base played a crucial role in defending the New York Harbor during World War II.Today, it is a national park and offers guided tours, exhibits, and special events.
