Vietnam Vet Has Grand Parade Idea

CREST HAVEN — Joe Griffies, a Vietnam veteran who served with the Army in the 4th Infantry, believes Cape May County could host a colossal Memorial Day veterans’ parade.
Since New York City shunned such a veterans’ parade, Griffies believes it’s time Cape May County roll out the red carpet and hoist the welcome flag.
“We could have a major parade on Memorial Day Weekend to honor our Iraqi veterans. Invite them to the Jersey Shore,” he said.
“In World War II, they turned Atlantic City into a rehabilitation area for veterans. We are not using the uniqueness of our towns and our citizens,” said Griffies Tue., Jan. 10.
Griffies attended the freeholder meeting that night, but missed his cue to speak when Director Gerald Thornton, a veteran, asked for public comment. Once the meeting was closed, Griffies sought an opportunity to speak, but three board members had departed the dais.
Thornton asked Griffies to attend the next meeting to relate his idea.
“I personally think patriotism stinks all over the country,” said Griffies.
He said many elected officials running the nation never wore an armed forces uniform, yet have no problem sending troops into distant combat.
“There is a way to put patriotism back into the nation, and Cape May County should start it by honoring our veterans,” he added.
“When we honor our veterans, we are telling them we are standing shoulder to shoulder with them and helping them uphold freedom of this country, he said.
He envisions a “parade through Cape May County.”
“If New York can’t do it, Cape May County can do it,” said the Rio Grande resident.
He presented each freeholder with a photocopy of a World War II scene in Sea Isle City when Jeeps lined 42nd Street parked in such a fashion as to speed members of the 114th Infantry out of the city, in the event of an enemy landing on the beach.
Contact Campbell at (609) 886-8600 Ext 28 or at: al.c@cmcherald.com