“Name that Jersey Shore town contest.”  Winner gets a signed and numbered “Flag Day” print by Jack Bredin. See below.     Blogfinger photo. © Nov. 2, 2017.

By Paul Goldfinger, Editor @Blogfinger.

This memorial is mostly dedicated to WWII veterans, although there also was recognition of vets from the Korean Conflict and WWI.  The names of those who died in the war are marked with stars.  And, it should be noted, that the Battle of Monmouth was fought in Freehold in June, 1778.  Freehold is an old town, having been founded in the 17th century.

This monument is especially moving because it is located in the middle of the city, right where several roads converge, so thousands of people see it as they drive by.  We walked among the monuments, and it is engaging; and yet it’s not a cemetary, although the rows of crosses and stars seem like that.

We used to live across the road from Arlington National Cemetery, and monuments to honor war dead are so important for the nation’s collective memory.

In France, every little village has a war memorial in the center of town, mostly from WWI. I hate the idea of tearing down war monuments.  It’s an effective way to remind everyone of the horrors of war and to honor those who served.

The winners of our “name that Jersey Shore” contest are Joy and Mike Adase of Ocean Grove.

PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND    “Precious Lord”

“Precious Lord, take my hand
Lead me on, let me stand
I’m tired, I’m weak, I’m lone
Through the storm, through the night
Lead me on to the light
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home.”