This Memorial Day 2023 has by far the best weather we have seen in many years!
I want to thank the well over 60+ boats that were decorated in red, white and blue to show their support to our fallen veterans and the families they left behind. So many flags flying and banners to show their support and love for the men and women that were left behind.
How about the support on the beach? I was bursting with pride from everyone who took the time out of their busy day to show their appreciation, all wearing red, white and blue.
A very special thank you to our Gold Star mother, Carol Koch who lost her precious son, Major Charles J Koch on June 14, 2013. The sacrifice your family has endured through these years will NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.
Thank you to Pastor Graeme Wilson for blessing our boats and praying for a safe boating season.
We want to thank the following people because without them this day wouldn't be possible. Mayor Carmen Amato, Jr., Councilman at Large John Bacchione, Councilman Ward 1 James Brynes, Berkeley Township Chief of Police Kevin Santucci, Bayville Fire Chief John McKay, the New Jersey Marine Police, Berkeley Township Underwater Search and Rescue, L. Douglas Weed, on bagpipes, Wyatt Salberg playing taps, Master Sergeant Grant with Central Regional Color Guard, Ocean County Sheriff Color Guard, Master Sergeant Gary Felton for laying the wreath, Captain Howard Hoffman, Captain Art Quade, Captain Mike Widmer, Katie Bahlouli Arches Away for donating balloon arches, Bayville Florist, Mastapeter/Dante families for donation of bouquet for Gold Star Mother, Fred Bekiarian for helping me through the entire commemoration, President Beth Collis and all BSCA board members (you know who you are) that put in endless hours to ensure a success Commemoration and Blessing of the Fleet.
We thank you all and hope to see you next year!
And as always -
“We Remember, thank you”
