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Community Corner

Support Our Troops Rally Extends Gratitude to Woodbridge Soldiers

The "Support Our Troops" rally conveyed appreciation to Woodbridge troops and their families for the struggles they have had to endure.

Memorial Day has a tendency to be reduced to store sales, family picnics, and a three-day shore weekend. But township residents took the time to let military members and their families know that in the midst of two - and now three - wars in which the country is now engaged, Woodbridge remembers their efforts and thanks them and their families for their sacrifices.

This was the focus of the "Support Our Troops" rally at Woodbridge Senior High, a program that began with a moving recitation of the "Pledge of Allegiance." As each man, woman, and child stood with their right hand over their heart, a strong sense of pride enveloped the room.

The singing group Epiphany performed a beautiful rendition of the national anthem, which clearly moved the audience. An all-student Instrumental Choir directed by S. Healy provided musical accompaniment for the rally. The students making up the choir came from three different schools across the district. They played two memorable selections, the "Eagle Summit March" and "Freedom's Road."

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The throng at the rally cut across all racial, gender, and political boundaries. Everyone was there for one reason: to commemorate our troops and to extend that respect and appreciation to their family members, who struggle quietly on the home front. 

Councilman Charles Kenny, the leading organizer for the event, introduced Mayor John McCormac. "We are here tonight for our Woodbridge families who have sent their loved one overseas to defend our country and the ideals it was founded on," said McCormac.

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Last year, legislation granting Woodbridge veterans a $250 tax deduction was passed. This year, the council and assemblyman of Woodbridge are working on increasing that deduction to $500, a small way of showing our appreciation to them, explained McCormac.

Matthew Barany, a founder of the Blue Star Family Support Group, also took to the podium to inform the audience about the importance of the group, which serves as a shoulder to lean on for Woodbridge family members who have loved ones serving overseas.

Barany's son Matthew served in the Iraq War, and has finally returned home, safe and sound. "There is no greater feeling in the world than having your child serve and come home to you," said Barany. "Many parents out there don't get that."

He said that the work of volunteers who spend hours piecing together donations to create eloquent care packages for the troops doesn't go unnoticed. "Matthew said thank you so, so much for all the prayers, the boxes, and all that you did for him," said Barany.

Clearing any misconceptions that may exist about the war and the relationship between the soliders and the Iraqi civilians, Barany said, "I don't know what you all hear in the news but my son said that they all had great relationships with the Iraqis. They would even share the care packages with them and every time the soldiers pulled out when it was time for them to relocate, the Iraqis would get very upset."

"Our soldiers love them and protect them," he said.

Three soldiers - one currently serving in the armed forces, and two veterans - were each called to the stage individually to place a memorial wreath with the mayor. 

The currently serving soldier, First Lt. Walter McCall, shared his feelings and thoughts about his participation in the rally. "My unit is in Iraq but today I got the opportunity to meet soliders who served in WWII, Korea, and Vietman. It's nice to draw connections with those that came before you. It was very motivational and inspirational," said McCall.

He lovingly pointed to his wife, Jacquelyn McCall, who was holding onto their baby's stroller. "She's a key player in all of this because she is the leader of the support group for my brigade," McCall said. "Coming to this rally allowed her to make connections, and now she knows who she can turn to when she needs support."

Veteran Petty Officer Edward Marczak, who serves as the current president of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 233, expressed his thoughts on the unwavering support the troops serving in the Iraq War receive.

"It was different then than it is now, and it's much better now. Back in Vietnam, the support was different and so the public looked at us differently," said Marczak.

Veteran Sargeant Ray LoLargo, who also served in Vietnam, agreed. "I'm glad we are paying tribute and showing our support and love to the troops and I hope that they come home soon," said LoLargo.  

Back in 1968, LoLargo served as a paratrooper in Vietnam. "Back then, there was such a difference in attitude because the country was split," he said.  "I know how important support for our troops is, and what a long way it goes."

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