County Continues Long Tradition of Honoring Lost Veterans

By Memorial Day, more than 15,000 American flags will be placed at the graves of Ocean County's veterans, a tradition carried on for more than 90 years. 

"It’s a fitting way to remember those who have given so much for their nation," said Freeholder Gerry P. Little, liaison to the Ocean County Veterans Service Bureau, in a statement. 

The Ocean County Veterans Service Bureau and a "small army" of volunteers have been working to place American Flags on the graves of veterans in all of the county’s cemeteries, according to officials. 

"Everyone wants to enjoy a three-day weekend and the start of the summer season, but I hope everyone will take the time to honor both our veterans and those brave servicemen and women fighting for our freedom today," Little said. 

In Ocean County, 13 service members have given their lives fighting the War on Terror. Most recently in 2012, Christopher M. Monahan, a 2006 Central Regional graduate who lived in Island Heights, was killed while serving with the U.S. Marines in Afghanistan. 

The volunteer project began in the 1920s, and honored those from Ocean County who died in such wars as World War I, the Civil War and the American Revolution.

"Between the barbecues, the picnics and the trips to the beach, let us all remember the true meaning of Memorial Day," said Freeholder Deputy Director James F. Lacey.

Toms River has several historic cemeteries where American Revolution soldiers are buried, including several plots on Washington and Hooper Avenue. 

Joined by Freeholder Joseph H. Vicari, Little recently visited the historic Riverside Cemetery in Toms River and placed several flags, including one on the grave of Civil War veteran Lawrence R. Berrien and his wife Caroline Rose.

Berrien, who lived from 1845 to 1933, served in Company A of the 5th New York Infantry Regiment, which fought at Bull Run, Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville.

"We never forget our veterans in Ocean County," Vicari said in a statement. "From the Revolutionary War to the War on Terror, we honor them all."

Little said that the recent attack in Boston is a reminder that the War on Terror continues. 

"Our soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines remain in harm’s way so that our families can be kept safe," he said.