Milford honors those who sacrificed all

By Frances Ruth Harris
MILFORD — The verge on Broad Street quickly filled as the community came out to remember those who fought and died in service to the country.
Many local veterans' groups participated in the Memorial Day observance, including the Marine Corps League Detachment 909, the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8612, Marsch Kellogg American Legion Post 1390, the Vietnam Veterans of America Tri-state Chapter 623, the American Legion Post 139 of the Ladies Auxilliary, the Warriors Watch Riders and ABATE, the American Bikers Aimed Toward Education. The Milford Fire Department and local police officers lent their support and protection.
George Savastides, President of the Vietnam Veterans of America, and Linda Kozak, with the Auxillary of the Vietnam Veterans of America, presided at the ceremonies in Soldiers and Sailors Park. John Kupilias and Patti Kupillas, representing Associates of the Vietnam Veterans of America, placed a wreath at the memorial.
Opening and closing prayers were given by Vietnam veteran Robert Ridley.
Guest speaker Kelly Gaughan gave an inspiring speech honoring all who served. She stressed the importance of supporting the armed forces, and never forgetting the debt each free person in the country owes to its soldiers, sailors, and airmen.
Gaughan, who has been practicing law in Pike County since 1999, is the daughter and wife of veterans. She is a member of the American Legion Post 139 Ladies Auxilliary and serves on the board of directors of Vetstock, among other civic participation.
Boy Scout Troop 71's special Memorial Day project, Stars of Honor, raised money for the New Jersey Missions of Honor, which locates, identifies, and inters the abandoned cremains of American veterans. The Scouts raised almost $300 to purchase an urn for one of these veterans by selling paper stars, on which donors could honor friends and family members who served in the armed forces.