Memorial Day 2023: Mobus, Scott & Robertson's Supreme Sacrifices

Memorial Day is a solemn and significant holiday in the United States, observed on the last Monday of May each year. It is a time when the nation comes together to honor and remember the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the military. This day holds deep meaning and serves as a reminder of the high cost of freedom.

American Civil War Origins

Originally known as Decoration Day, Memorial Day dates back to the years following the American Civil War. It emerged as a way to commemorate the fallen soldiers who fought in that devastating conflict. The day was set aside to decorate the graves of the fallen with flowers and pay tribute to their valor and sacrifice. 

Over time, Memorial Day has evolved to honor the memory of all American servicemen and servicewomen who have lost their lives in all wars and conflicts. It is a day of remembrance, reflection, and gratitude for those who laid down their lives to protect and defend the values and principles that the United States holds dear. 

The commemoration of Memorial Day involves various traditions and observances across the nation. One of the most recognizable customs is the decoration of graves with American flags and flowers. Many people also participate in parades, attend memorial services, and visit cemeteries to pay their respects. 

Harrison NJ Vietnam Veterans and Their Supreme Sacrifice 

In the Town of Harrison, New Jersey, there is a special place dedicated to honoring the soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice during the Vietnam War. Among the three monuments in Harrison's Veterans Plaza, one stands as a testament to the fallen heroes of that conflict. 

The inscription on the monument reads: 

"In Honor of Those Who Made The Supreme Sacrifice in Vietnam War, Joseph P. Mobus, Donald B. Scott, David Robertson." 

Let us take a moment to remember and honor these courageous individuals who gave their lives in service to their country. 

Joseph P. Mobus

Joseph P. Mobus, a member of the 1st Cavalry Division, 1st Battalion, 8th Cavalry, C Company, fought valiantly in the Vietnam War. Sadly, he was Killed in Action on August 19, 1969, at the age of 21, during combat in South Vietnam's Binh Long province. Joseph P. Mobus received several accolades for his service, including the Purple Heart, Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal. 

Donald B. Scott

Donald B. Scott, a machine gunner in the 1st Marine Division, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, L Company, also made the supreme sacrifice. He lost his life on August 2, 1968, at the age of 19, during combat in South Vietnam's Quang Nam province. Lance Corporal Scott was posthumously honored with the Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon, and the Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal, among other commendations. 

David Robertson

Army Sergeant David Robertson served in the 4th Infantry Division, 2nd Battalion, 8th Infantry, C Company. He fought bravely in South Vietnam's Thua Thien province but tragically lost his life on June 27, 1968, at the age of 23. Sgt. Robertson was recognized for his service with the Purple Heart, Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Army Presidential Unit Citation. 

These three individuals embody the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of all the soldiers who fought and died during the Vietnam War. Their names will forever be etched in the memory of Harrison, NJ, and in the hearts of those who recognize their selflessness. 

Renaming of Hill Street in Harrison, NJ 

In 2013, a poignant tribute was paid to the fallen soldiers of Harrison, NJ. The late Mayor Raymond McDonough and the town council decided to rename Hill Street to Scott Mobus Place. This renaming served as a lasting memorial to Donald B. Scott and Joseph P. Mobus, honoring their memory and sacrifice for their country. Both Scott and Mobus lived on Hill Street. 

Additionally, Councilman and Marine Victor Villalta, who has since passed away, urged the Harrison Board of Education to install a commemorative plaque at Harrison High School. This plaque, adorned with a photo of Marine Donald Scott, serves as a reminder of his athletic achievements during his time at Harrison High School and his dedicated service to the United States of America. 

These gestures of remembrance and recognition demonstrate the profound impact that these brave individuals had on their community. Through these memorials, the residents of Harrison ensure that the legacy of Joseph P. Mobus, Donald B. Scott, and all those who made the supreme sacrifice in the Vietnam War lives on, and their service will never be forgotten. Army Sergeant David Robertson is named in the Vietnam Veteran’s monument in Library Park in Harrison, NJ, but does not have a street named after him in Harrison. 

As Memorial Day approaches, let us remember and honor not only these fallen heroes but also the countless others who have given their lives in service to our country. May we never take for granted the freedoms and privileges we enjoy today, which have been secured through the sacrifice of brave men and women throughout history. 

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