2025 Memorial Day Parade
A tradition that spans over a century, Glassboro will recognize Memorial Day with its annual parade on Monday, May 26th.
The parade procession will get underway at 10 a.m., marching from the corner of Lehigh and University, making its way downtown on Whitney and High streets, ending at Academy.
GLASSBORO, NEW JERSEY --- A tradition that spans over a century, Glassboro will recognize Memorial Day with its annual parade on Monday, May 26th.
The parade procession will get underway at 10 a.m., marching from the corner of Lehigh and University, making its way downtown on Whitney and High streets, ending at Academy.
The parade features award-winning string bands, the beloved children's bike brigade, local businesses, and nonprofits, as well as a diverse array of military veteran groups. And the parade would not be complete without Glassboro’s police and fire departments.
This year’s Grand Marshall is Glassboro resident John J. Tedeschi, Sr., a Vietnam Veteran who successfully completing four campaigns spanning from May 1967 to 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.
"It is an incredible honor to recognize John J. Tedeschi, Sr. as this year’s Grand Marshal. His unwavering courage, dedication, and service during the Vietnam War exemplify the true spirit of patriotism. The medals and commendations he has earned are a testament to his commitment to protecting our nation, and today, we celebrate and thank him for his sacrifices. John’s story reminds us all of the deep gratitude we owe to our veterans, and I am proud to have him lead this year’s parade.", said Councilwoman and Parade Committee Co-Chair, Daniele Brida Spence.
Additionally, 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.
"We are honored to host the Memorial Day Parade in partnership with our veterans, active-duty personnel, and community organizations," Mayor John E. Wallace III said. "This parade serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women and allows us to come together as a community to honor their memory."
The annual Memorial Day Parade is coordinated by the Glassboro VFW, the American Legion, the Memorial Day Parade Committee, borough employees and many volunteers. Road closures for the parade will be set starting at 7am and residents are encouraged to line the streets along the parade route. A little used location is the 400 block of High Street, near the intersection of Whitney. 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.
For more information, please contact the Glassboro Parade Committee at 856-881-9230 ext. 88149.
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