On Monday, May 31st, the 2021 Memorial Day, members of the Greater Princeton branch of AYLUS (GPA) gathered at several veterans memorials for a Memorial Day Observance to pay tribute to the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense for our freedom.
Memorial Day is a tradition that dates back to 1868, when Union Army General John A. Logan placed wreaths on the graves of fallen Civil War soldiers and issued a proclamation calling for a day of national observance for their sacrifice. More than a century later, President Nixon officially declared the last Monday of May as a federal holiday to honor the American soldiers who died serving in the armed forces in all wars. Though many of us celebrate the day with social events like cookouts, barbecues and backyard get-togethers, the true meaning of Memorial Day is much deeper than that.
At the Mercer County Vietnam Veterans Memorial, GPA members hosted a parade and visited the memorial to learn about history. Founder and President Cassie Tammy Wang gave a brief speech to all participants, and welcomed new team members to the GPA family. They paid their respects to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. By stepping into the past, GPA members wanted to lend a helping hand to people who need help now. We are celebrating the true meaning of Memorial Day! And this year, GPA members showed our unity by wearing AYLUS uniforms, holding our branch banner, and waving the national flags during the parade.
Two GPA members attended the West Windsor Township Memorial Day ceremony (West Windsor Municipal Complex-271 Clarksville Road). The ceremony is in coordination with the American Legion Post 76, Mayor Hemant Marathe, and the West Windsor Township Council. GPA members also spoke with NJ Legislative District 15 Senator Shirley Turner and introduced AYLUS, Greater Princeton Branch and its various volunteer activities. She praised GPA’s contributions to the community.
Four GPA members visited the Montgomery Veterans Park and paid their respects to the veterans.
GPA member Leena Chang took part in the Allentown Memorial Day Parade.
GPA volunteers (3 hrs for all): Cassie Tammy Wang, Lina Yang, Gina Shen, Kathie Wang, Chloe Tan, Xiangcheng Ying, Claire Cheng, Cosner Yang, Tessa Thai, Fangyi Chen, Xin Chen, Alissa Wu, Amy Zheng, Grace Li, Donna Nagorny, Amber Yu, Ricky Fan, Fiona Fan, Pearl Song, Sophia Song, Cynthia Jinghui Huang, Leena Chang, and more.
