Hudson County Honors Local Veterans in Jersey City Ceremony

Hudson County Executive Craig Guy led a heartfelt ceremony in Jersey City to honor the service and sacrifices of local veterans as part of the county’s annual Veterans Day commemorations. Among this year’s honorees from West Hudson were Cristina Sanchez of Harrison, Thomas Veith of Kearny, and Mark Makowski of East Newark. Each veteran was presented with a Citation from the County of Hudson, recognizing their dedication to the United States Armed Forces. 

The Citations, a symbol of gratitude and respect, read in part: “The People of the County of Hudson are proud to salute the outstanding achievements of the individuals who have served their country selflessly and heroically as members of the United States Armed Forces. Those honored by the County of Hudson have received an accolade bestowed for their sacrifice and bravery.” 

The ceremony was attended by the honorees’ families and local elected officials. In Harrison, Councilman Laurence Bennett represented the Mayor and Council, and Rich Rietberger of the American Legion Edwin D. Marshman Sr. Post 282 Harrison accompanied Cristina Sanchez and her family. In Kearny, Mayor Carol Jean Doyle and members of the Town Council joined Thomas Veith and his family. Kearny Councilman Jerry Ficeto and Marytrine DeCastro also attended along with American Legion’s Leonard Twist and Keith McMillan  In East Newark, Mayor Dina Grilo and Councilman Kenneth Sheehan accompanied Mark Makowski and his family, underscoring the community's deep respect for its veterans.

Harrison Councilman Laurence Bennett (center) represented the Mayor and Council, and Rich Rietberger of the American Legion Edwin D. Marshman Sr. Post 282 Harrison accompanied Cristina Sanchez

Hudson County Executive Craig Guy emphasized the importance of honoring veterans, stating, “These individuals have given so much to our country, and it is our duty to show them our gratitude. This ceremony serves as a moment of reflection and appreciation for the immense sacrifices they have made to ensure the freedoms we all enjoy today.” 

Kearny Mayor Carol Jean Doyle and members of the Town Council joined Thomas Veith and his family. Kearny Councilman Jerry Ficeto and Marytrine DeCastro attended along with American Legion’s Leonard Twist and Keith McMillan 

The Significance and Origins of Veterans Day 

Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11, is a day of national reflection and gratitude for the service of military veterans in the United States. Originally called Armistice Day, it marked the end of World War I, which officially concluded with the signing of the armistice on November 11, 1918, at 11 a.m. The day became a symbol of peace and a tribute to those who served in the “war to end all wars.” 

In 1954, following the widespread impact of World War II and the Korean War, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation officially changing the name to Veterans Day. The holiday broadened its focus to honor all veterans, living and deceased, who served in the U.S. Armed Forces, whether in times of peace or war. 

Unlike Memorial Day, which specifically commemorates those who died in service to the country, Veterans Day celebrates all who have worn the uniform and made sacrifices for the nation. It is a time to recognize their courage, resilience, and the enduring impact of their service. 

Across Hudson County, Veterans Day serves as a reminder of the enduring bond between the community and its veterans. Local ceremonies, such as the one organized by the Hudson County Department of Health and Human Services, Veterans Affairs Division, are essential in keeping the spirit of gratitude alive. These events not only celebrate the bravery of individual veterans but also highlight the shared commitment to ensuring their contributions are never forgotten. 

As the ceremony concluded attendees left with a renewed sense of pride and a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who have defended the nation’s freedoms. Hudson County’s and our local veteran organizations and elected officials' continued efforts to honor its veterans reflect the community's commitment to upholding the values and principles for which these individuals fought so bravely. 

Photographs courtesy of The Observer Newspaper

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