CAPE MAY – The Friends of the World War II Lookout Tower will honor area veterans of all wars on Armed Forces Day, May 21, at the restored World War II Lookout Tower (Fire Control Tower No. 23) in a patriotic ceremony beginning at 11 a.m. The ceremony theme will be “Defending the Delaware” — and include an account by Mark Allen of the fortification systems throughout history that have successfully defended the shores of the Delaware River and Bay.
The World War II Lookout Tower Museum & Memorial is located on Sunset Boulevard in Lower Township near Cape May Point, N.J. It pays tribute to the dedicated men and women who have helped preserve our freedom, and stands as a reminder of the Cape May area’s important role during the war years.
The ceremonies will include comments from state and local officials, representatives from the U.S. Coast Guard, patriotic music, recognition of veterans and volunteers, the playing of “Taps,” and the dedication of a bench at the memorial to World War II veteran Ed Kent, as well as the addition of World War II Veteran Joseph Rizzo’s photo to the Wall of Honor.
The Tower will also be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with free admission to the public on Armed Forces Day.
The World War II Lookout Tower is part of the large coastal defense system known as Fort Miles that extends into Delaware and protected the entrance to the Delaware Bay during World War II. In March 2009, the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC) successfully completed the restoration of the World War II Lookout Tower, historically known as Fire Control Tower No. 23, and opened the wartime landmark to the public. Family members can honor loved ones through memorial plaques mounted permanently at the site. An All Veterans Memorial was dedicated at the Tower May 19, 2012 and is open throughout the year for quiet contemplation. Armed Services Day is celebrated annually at the Tower.
The Friends of the World War II Lookout Tower, an affinity group of MAC, is comprised of concerned citizens, families and veterans who seek to foster a greater understating and appreciation of not only Cape May’s important role in World War II, but also of the traits of patriotism, loyalty and self-sacrifice so evident in the people of these war years. MAC and “Friends” membership is open to all. If you are interested in becoming a “Friends” member, contact Dr. Robert Heinly, Tower Friends Coordinator, at (609) 884-5404 ext. 1-134.
The Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC) is a multifaceted not-for-profit organization committed to promoting the preservation, interpretation, and cultural enrichment of the Cape May region for its residents and visitors. MAC membership is open to all.
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