The Veterans Memorial in Franklin Township honors the men and women from the Township who served in the armed services in peace and in war, on foreign soil and at home. It is a tribute to their sacrifice, bravery and dedication to the freedom we dearly cherish. The Memorial can be visited 24 hours, 7 days a week. The memorial started as a large stone and memorial plaque placed directly in front of the Municipal Building. It was the project of the Jensen-Scalzone American Legion Post 478 and dedicated on May 27, 1974. In 2000, at the recommendation of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign War Post 8025, the Franklin Township Council formed a Veterans Committee to draft plans for the expansion of the Memorial. The design for the memorial was completed in May, 2004, constructed largely by volunteers with extensive assistance from the Township’s Department of Public Works, and dedicated in December, 2004.

The Monuments
The six large monuments encircling the fountain each have a quote from a branch of the armed services. They represent, from left to right, the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy and Merchant Marine. In between the Coast Guard and Marine Corps monuments is the original 1974 memorial stone and plaque.

The Flags
The United States, POW—MIA, and New Jersey flags are in the center. Flags representing each of the branches of service are raised above the monuments.

Bell Tower
The bell tower is the most recent addition and was first rung at 11:00 a.m. on Veterans Day, November 11, 2006. It symbolizes the American spirit of freedom and will be struck at official ceremonies commemorating Veterans Day, Memorial Day and Independence Day.

Memorial Stones
Located along the back walkway are memorial stones with quotes from General Dwight D. Eisenhower, President John Fitzgerald Kennedy, President Ronald Reagan, General George S. Patton, and President George Washington.

Funding
Donations for the project were made through the purchase of various-sized engraved pavers placed at the foot of the fountain. These memorial pavers include the names of veterans, individuals and families.

Major funding came from a capital ordinance passed by the Township Council, as well as a significant contribution from local chapters of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Volunteers
The majority of the work on the Memorial was done by volunteers. They designed the memorial, ordered the materials, prepared the site, laid the pavers and oversaw the construction.

Future Plans
There are plans for future expansion in coming years. Memorial pavers are still available. For information on purchasing a memorial paver, call 732-873-2500, x6239 or click here for a Paver form

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