Memorial Day: Fanwood Remembers

Mayor Colleen Mahr welcomed citizens, veterans, first responders and other dignitaries to Fanwood’s official observance of Memorial Day held this year at the historic train station on North Avenue.

Bright sun shone on the gathering of about 150 people who came to remember those lost in war and pay tribute to those serving today.

USAF First Sgt. Oshanda Erb makes the keynote speech flanked by Mayor Colleen Mahr, Councilwoman Trisha Walsh and Gina Berry, County Commissioner Al Mirabella.

The keynote speaker was Air Force First Sgt. Oshanda Erb of Fanwood, the Grand Marshall of the Memorial Day parade. Her speech paid tribute to service men and women, living and deceased, whose sacrifices have made freedom possible for Americans. Sgt. Erb is active in local veteran affairs and is a frequent volunteer at American Legion Post 209 in Scotch Plains.

Sgt. Erb with Joe Schott

Among those present were about a dozen active duty or retired servicemen including Joe Schott of Fanwood, a World War II veteran, who celebrated his 101^st birthday this year.

Memorial wreaths were laid in a grassy area opposite the train station by VFW Post 10122, American Legion Post 209, the Fanwood Police Department, Fanwood Fire Department and Fanwood Rescue Squad, all of whom were represented in numbers.

Joining Mayor Mahr at the podium were Borough Council president Jeff Banks, Councilwomen Trisha Walsh and Gina Berry, County Commissioner Al Mirabella, Scotch Plains Mayor Josh Losardo and Councilmen Matt Adams and Roc White.

Following the ceremony, residents lined Martine Avenue to watch the sights and sounds of the Memorial Day Parade featuring our first responders, marching bands, local scouts, elected officials and, of course, Grand Marshall Oshanda Erb.