Members of the Nutley community gathered in Town Hall Chambers on November 11 to take part in the Township’s annual Veterans Day ceremony in celebration of all those who have fought to defend our great nation.

All were encouraged to reflect on the true cost of freedom and take the opportunity to keep the memories, sacrifices and accomplishments of our nation alive.

Assemblywoman Carmen Morales commended all in attendance for taking the time to commemorate our veterans. “I am a granddaughter, a niece and proud aunt of those who have answered the call of duty. Today, we come together to recognize the courage and dedication of our veterans and the men and women who have stepped forward to protect our freedoms.”

The presentation of the Veteran of the Year Award went to Courtney Johnson of the Township’s Public Affairs and Health Department. Upon presenting the award, Director of the Township of Nutley Veteran Affairs Daniel Jacoby recognized Johnson’s “exceptional” commitment in advocating for veterans. Jacoby recalled his first encounter with Johnson referring to him as a “retired Marine” to which Johnson had corrected him stating “I’m not a retired Marine, I’m always a Marine.”  

Johnson shared some of his experiences with his fellow community members. “One of the things I love about being a veteran is we know what’s important. We will always stand for what is important and we’ll always be united no matter what. No matter what branch of service you were in, when we meet each other, we can just sit down and have a conversation and it’s as though we’ve known each other forever. We can look into each other’s eyes and have a conversation that no one else can.” 

Thankful that the Township of Nutley provides resources and support for its veterans, Johnson reminded all to “remember those people who made it back home and didn’t stay home long enough to be seen, heard or celebrated.” He asked all to remember those struggling veterans as they participated in the Township’s Veterans Day 5K Ruck March which immediately followed the ceremony. The Ruck March sets out to raise awareness for those veterans struggling with mental health. Participants carry a 22-pound weighted rucksack or backpack as they march through Memorial Park. The weight is a symbol for the average of 22 veterans a day who take their own life.

The event was preceded by an “Elite” Ruck March and breakfast on Saturday morning, also attended by Assemblywoman Morales.