Woodland Park Honors Those That Gave All with Memorial Day Ceremonies

WOODLAND PARK, NJ - Woodland Park held its annual Memorial Day commemorations on Monday, honoring those who have served and sacrificed for the country. The town came together to remember and pay tribute to veterans through three distinct ceremonies, each dedicated to different aspects of military service.

The day's events began with the Firemen's Memorial Ceremony at the intersection of McBride Avenue and Memorial Drive. This ceremony honored the brave firefighters who have served in the military, recognizing their dual commitment to public safety and national defense. A wreath was laid, and local officials spoke about the valor and dedication of these individuals.

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"Many dedicate their lives to both the military and our community," Mayor Tracy Kallert said. "Woodland Park is built on volunteers. If we ever lose them, we lose a sense of who we are. This town will no longer be the town we know and love. Memorial Day is not just about remembering the past, but also about honoring their legacy and continuing their tradition of service. To all veterans and their families, thank you. We are here for you."

West Paterson Fire Department Chief Paul Salomone Jr. honored Nicholas Frank Cerrato, a local hero who sacrificed his life in Vietnam. Born on December 27, 1947, Cerrato attended Passaic Valley High School and was active in the community. Drafted in 1968, he served with distinction, earning a Combat Infantry Badge and a Purple Heart. Tragically, Cerrato was killed in action on May 10, 1969, at the age of 21.

Following the Firemen's Ceremony, the Killed in Action (KIA) Memorial Ceremony took place on Memorial Drive, paying homage to those who were killed in action. This solemn event included a reading of the names of fallen soldiers from the community.

"We gather on Memorial Day to honor those who gave their lives for our freedom," Carl Rinaldi, American Legion Post 238 Commander, said. "Every morning at these monuments, we remember their sacrifice and ensure their legacy lives on. The mission of the Armed Services, the American Legion, and all of us here is to make sure they are never forgotten. We celebrate their lives not just in song and prayer, but every day. Veterans serve in every aspect of our community—fire departments, police, local government, EMS. They are our brothers, sisters, mothers, daughters, sons, fathers, and grandparents. We should remember them daily, not just on Memorial Day or Veterans Day, but 365 days a year."

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The third ceremony, at McBride Avenue and Brophy Lane, was the Veterans Memorial Ceremony. This event honored all veterans, past and present, who have served in the armed forces.

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