Each November 11, New Jersey proudly joins the nation in honoring the courage and service of America’s veterans. Veterans Day 2025 will see communities across the Garden State unite to pay tribute through ceremonies, parades, breakfasts, and special events dedicated to those who have served in every branch of the U.S. Armed Forces. From the quiet reflection at memorial parks to the warmth of community breakfasts and wellness gatherings, this year’s observances embody New Jersey’s deep respect for those who protect our freedom.
In Mount Holly, the annual ceremony hosted by the Mount Holly Township Joint Veterans Committee will begin at 11:00 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Park on Ridgley Street. Following the formal tribute, attendees are invited to Post 2692 for a continuation of the ceremony and a luncheon celebrating the town’s veterans and their families.
The Township of Washington will host its own ceremony at the Township Public Library, located at 144 Woodfield Road, also at 11:00 a.m. Residents are encouraged to join in honoring local servicemen and women who have contributed so much to the community. In Manchester Township, veterans will be recognized in a special ceremony at the Town Hall on Colonial Drive. Organizers are inviting veterans to participate in the recognition program and receive a personalized certificate of appreciation.
Winslow Township will hold its annual Veterans Day gathering at 11:00 a.m. at the Municipal Building on New Jersey Route 73 in Hammonton, creating a space for reflection, pride, and gratitude. In nearby Williamstown, Juniper Village will host a heartfelt flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremony beginning at 11:30 a.m., featuring local speakers and special guests.
For those looking to start the day in fellowship, Willingboro’s Veterans Day Breakfast at the Kennedy Center begins at 9:30 a.m., followed by a program at 11:00 a.m. honoring local veterans. The breakfast is free for veterans, while guests may attend for $10, with proceeds supporting local veteran initiatives.
In Manchester Township, the community’s gratitude continues at the 21st Annual Veterans Recognition Program at Manchester Township High School. Beginning at 2:30 p.m., the event features student performances, guest speakers, and refreshments, providing a moving intergenerational celebration of service and sacrifice.
Later in the day, families can enjoy a lighter celebration at Chick-fil-A in Oakhurst, where Family Game Night begins at 5:00 p.m. with themed crafts and activities inspired by Veterans Day. Meanwhile, White Horse Winery in Hammonton will host Veterans Day Wine & Wellness starting at 4:00 p.m., combining relaxation, live music, and a toast to New Jersey’s military heroes.
In the days leading up to Veterans Day, several towns will host early events honoring service members. On November 7, Harvey Cedars will hold its Honoring Our HC Veterans ceremony at Sunset Park, offering an intimate community gathering by the water. Aberdeen will follow on November 8 with its Salute to Our Veterans Car Show, featuring classic cars, food trucks, and a breakfast for veterans and their families.
Mullica Hill will hold a Veterans Day Breakfast on November 10 with live music and a presentation about the Honor Flight program, which provides veterans the opportunity to visit Washington D.C. memorials dedicated to their service. On November 15, two major events cap off the month’s observances: the Veterans Day Freedom Run at Wiggins Waterfront Park in Camden, offering 5K, 10K, and half-marathon distances; and History, Honor, and Heroes at the Edison Public Library, an afternoon dedicated to remembrance and education.
Veterans Day is both a state and federal holiday, observed annually on November 11, recognizing all U.S. military veterans who have served in times of war and peace. Across New Jersey, government offices, courts, and schools will be closed, along with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. The U.S. Postal Service will pause regular deliveries, and most major banks will be closed. Many private businesses remain open, with several offering discounts and free meals to veterans and active-duty service members as a gesture of gratitude.
The State of New Jersey traditionally holds its official observance at 11:00 a.m. on November 11, often at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans Memorial, honoring fallen service members and all who have worn the uniform. Museums and historic sites throughout the state, including the Battleship New Jersey and the Museum of the American Revolution, frequently mark the day with special events, exhibits, and free or discounted admission for veterans and their families.
New Jersey’s Veterans Day commemorations serve as a powerful reminder that behind every uniform is a story of dedication, resilience, and love of country. Whether attending a formal ceremony, volunteering at a local event, or simply pausing for a moment of reflection, residents across the state are encouraged to take part in honoring those who have safeguarded the freedoms we enjoy every day.
Morris County Honors Local Heroes and Marks 250 Years of the U.S. Marine Corps
Morris County came together this week to celebrate its veterans and pay homage to the men and women who have worn the nation’s uniform. At the county’s annual Veterans Day Observance in Morristown, eight local veterans were recognized for their distinguished service while the evening also commemorated the 250th anniversary of the United States Marine Corps and honored one of Morris County’s own Civil War heroes.
The ceremony took place inside the Morris County Administration and Records Building, where Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen opened the event with a heartfelt message of gratitude. “Supporting our veterans is not just an obligation, it’s an honor,” Selen said as he welcomed local leaders, state officials, and community members. “Their courage and commitment continue to inspire us every day, and our promise is to ensure that their service and sacrifice are never forgotten.”
Among those in attendance were state Sen. Anthony Bucco, Assemblywoman Aura K. Dunn, and representatives from both the U.S. House of Representatives and local municipalities. The audience included family members, fellow veterans, and residents who gathered to show appreciation for the county’s heroes.
Commissioner John Krickus, a proud Marine Corps veteran himself, led the segment commemorating the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary. He presented a formal Morris County Resolution of Honor to Sgt. Joseph Tortola and Staff Sgt. Rafael E. Vallejos of the 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, stationed at Picatinny Arsenal. Krickus reflected on the legacy of the Marines, saying, “From the Battle of Princeton to Kabul Airport, every generation of Marines has carried the same code of honor and sacrifice. For us, the tradition is clear — to remember those who gave everything and to live in a way that keeps their legacy alive. Once a Marine, always a Marine.”
A particularly moving moment of the evening came when Deputy Director Stephen Shaw led a tribute to Corporal Charles Fern Hopkins Sr., a Civil War soldier from Boonton who received the Medal of Honor for his bravery at the Battle of Gaines Mill in 1862. Hopkins’ story is one of remarkable endurance and courage — after rescuing a wounded comrade under fire, he continued to fight despite his own severe injuries. Later captured during the Battle of the Wilderness, he survived imprisonment in several notorious Confederate camps, including Andersonville, before ultimately returning home.
Hopkins went on to dedicate his life to public service, holding positions as a state assemblyman, Morris County freeholder, Boonton mayor, and fire chief. Known affectionately as the “Grand Old Man of Boonton,” his influence on the community lasted long after the war. His great-grandson, Charlie Maraziti, accepted a resolution of honor on his behalf, joined by family members and Sen. Bucco, who shared his own deep ties to Boonton and its Fire Department.
The evening’s central focus was the presentation of the Morris County Distinguished Military Service Medals, awarded to eight veterans representing a range of eras and branches of service. Each was honored for their dedication and contributions both in uniform and within their local communities.
This year’s honorees were:
- Jack B. Bosma, Kinnelon
- Vincent J. DeCaro, Randolph Township
- Christopher Gardner, Morristown
- Charles E. Johnson, Dover
- Robert Litrio, Hanover Township
- Ronald Pierantozzi, Pequannock Township
- Aniceto Rivera, Boonton Township
- Samuel Y. Yuen, Randolph Township
Each veteran also received a joint state Senate and Assembly resolution from Sen. Bucco and Asw. Dunn, along with certificates of honor presented on behalf of U.S. Reps. Mikie Sherrill and Tom Kean Jr.
Director Selen closed the event by highlighting Morris County’s ongoing commitment to its veterans. Recent initiatives include expanding staff and resources at the Veterans Services Office, the creation of The Healing Garden for Veterans at Frelinghuysen Arboretum in partnership with the Morris County Park Commission, and participation in the national Operation Green Light for Veterans campaign, which honors service members through symbolic illumination from November 4–11 each year.
Events like this ceremony capture the heart of Morris County’s enduring respect for service and sacrifice. From honoring the bravery of a Civil War soldier to recognizing today’s veterans who continue to shape their communities, the county’s message is clear — gratitude is not limited to a single day on the calendar.
To explore more stories celebrating New Jersey’s vibrant history, local heroes, and cultural legacy, visit Explore New Jersey’s Art & Culture section. For more ways to experience the rich cultural and historical heritage of New Jersey — including museums, memorials, and community events that pay tribute to our state’s heroes — visit Explore New Jersey’s Art & Culture page.
