Fallen war heroes honored at Hayden Heights on Memorial Day
By P.T.
Published: May 27, 2013
War veterans who served in conflicts as different as the Korean War and Vietnam War gathered in the Veterans Memorial Park at Hayden Heights on McBride Avenue to honor their fallen brothers who gave their lives defending the homeland.
Among them was Jeffery Jones, the mayor of Paterson, who himself is a war veteran — he served in the Marine Corp during the conflict in Vietnam. Mr Jones participated in the 21-gun salute after a number of dignitaries gave their speeches lauding those who served and continue to serve their country during its time of need.
Among the speech givers were: Mr Jones, Tony Vancheri, the president of Paterson Veterans Council; John Harris, of the Passaic County Veteran Affairs; Andre Sayegh, 6th Ward councilman; and William McKoy, the 3rd Ward councilman.
A brief speech was given by the son of Walter Porter junior, a World War II war veteran, who passed away earlier this year – during the speech the son outlined the many honors his dad received including the Purple Heart for bravely serving in the army. Mr Porter was honored at the ceremony with the unveiling of a stone with his name inscribed on it.
About 30 members, between the age of 9 and 17, of the Paterson Police Athletic League, a cadet program, attended the event, and sang the national anthem.
A wreath was carried up to the massive memorial placard located at the top of the park where it was placed to honor all those who gave their lives serving in the United States military. A separate wreath was placed at the Veterans Memorial Park on Union Avenue.