Glassboro’s Memorial Day Parade

May 26, 2025 | 10am - 12pm | Downtown Glassboro

With a celebrated history that spans over a century, the Glassboro Memorial Day Parade stands as a poignant tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in battle. This annual event showcases award-winning string bands, a beloved children's bike brigade, local businesses, nonprofits, and a diverse array of military veteran groups.

Following the parade, a solemn ceremony honoring Glassboro's Fallen Heroes takes place at the Veteran's Memorial Plaza in Town Square. The coordination of this significant event is a collaborative effort between the Glassboro VFW, the American Legion, Borough employees, and residents.

Road closures for the parade will be in effect starting at 7 am, and residents are encouraged to line the streets along the parade route. The route begins at the corner of Lehigh and University, proceeding downtown on Whitney and High Street, and concludes at Academy. Spectators are advised to park in garages or Borough parking lots near the parade route and walk to their chosen viewing location.

2025 Glassboro Memorial Day Parade Grand Marshall

This year’s Grand Marshall is John J. Tedeschi, Sr., a Vietnam Veteran who successfully completing four campaigns spanning from May 1967 to 1968.

John, a native of Philadelphia from the Callowhill neighborhood, was drafted into military service on January 3, 1967. Ready to embark on his military journey, Tedeschi departed 20th Street Station headed for Fort Bragg, NC where he completed basic training.

By May 15th, Private First Class Tedeschi arrived in Vietnam, prepared to fulfill his military obligations. He was stationed in the I Corps Tactical Zone, the northernmost region of South Vietnam, which shares a border with North Vietnam. John served in the 34th Supply and Service Battalion, providing direct support to operations in the area.

After a year of service in Vietnam and successfully completing four campaigns, John was honorably discharged from the Army on December 18, 1968. Throughout his service in Vietnam, John was awarded several medals, including the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Unit Citation, the Meritorious Unit Citation, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with four bronze service stars, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon with device, and the Marksman Badge with Rifle Bar. Read more about Tedeschi here >>

New Jersey Air National Guard 177th Fighter Wing Flyover

Glassboro has requested and has received approval for an Air Force fighter jet flyover between 10:30 and 11:00- actual time on target to be announced. The F16 jets will be flown by the New Jersey Air National Guard 177th Fighter Wing in Atlantic City and will soar over the Veteran’s Memorial Monument located in Glassboro’s Town Square at the corner of High and Main and continue over the parade route as it approaches downtown.

Memorial Day Ceremony

Once the parade is complete, a ceremony will be held at the Veteran’s Memorial Monument, located in Glassboro’s Town Square, where the names of Glassboro’s fallen heroes will be read to the ringing of the bell, with remarks from special guest Kevin Smith, USAF Mortuary Affairs Operations Chief and keynote speaker, Colonel Benjamin W. Robbins, 177th Wing Commander. Additionally, there will be musical performances by Glassboro High School Choir and renowned soloist Michael Jones.

During the ceremony, the committee will honor William J. Gallon, a cherished educator, mentor, and friend. William J. Gallon served his country with honor for two years as a communications officer in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. In 1978, William earned his Bachelor of Arts in Marketing from Glassboro State College. It was during this time that he began a student teaching rotation at Glassboro High School. That experience led to a career lasting over 40 years.

William's faith was the cornerstone of his life. He served as the First Elder of the Glassboro Seventh-Day Adventist Church for over 20 years. One of William’s most cherished traditions was his annual participation in Glassboro’s Memorial Day Parade. He proudly marched with the youth of his church, representing both his faith and his commitment to service.

His presence in the parade became a beloved fixture in the community reflecting his deep patriotism and unwavering dedication to the town he called home. Read more about Gallon here >>

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