Mantua’s Memorial Day Ceremony was moved indoors due to the weather, but that didn’t stop our community from showing up in a big way.

Chairman Joe Heitman and our Veterans Commission did an outstanding job organizing a meaningful ceremony and paying tribute to our fallen heroes.

Township Committeeman Jack Steen was the keynote speaker and Former VFW 7679 Post Commander Martin Valdez was the guest speaker. The Clearview Marching Band played the National Anthem and Musical Selections, and Miss Stars & Stripes Emily Cooney from Mantua made a guest appearance. Mayor Bob Zimmerman, Deputy Mayor Eileen Lukens, Committeeman Jay Snyder and Committeeman Steen presented a Township Proclamation (Plaque of Honor) to the family of John Henry Versland who served in the U.S. Army after he immigrated to our country at just 17 years old and was drafted during the Korean War.

Versland who was born in Stavanger, Norway in 1931 rose to the rank of Corporal and received New Jersey’s highest Medal of Honor.

After serving his country, Versland made Mantua his home with wife, Joan where they raised their son, Eric.

They later welcomed granddaughters Kalyn and Erika. Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make this Memorial Day observance so special.

Photo Credit: Photos by Bruce Neumann