Continuing a proud annual tradition in Manchester Township, our hometown United States Service Members were honored during a moving Veterans Day ceremony held inside the Municipal Complex Courtroom on November 11, 2025.
“Our Veterans represent the best of our country. They’ve stood watch in times of peace and answered the call in times of conflict,” said Mayor Joseph Hankins during his keynote address. “Their strength, integrity, and commitment to something greater than themselves remind us of what true service means.”
Following the introduction of the proceedings by Roger P. Grenier, chairman of the Manchester Township’s Veterans Advisory Committee, honored guest State Senator Carmen Amato offered remarks and presented a Veterans Day resolution issued by the State Senate and General Assembly. Proudly joining the ceremony were numerous local service members representing their branch of service, as well as members of the Manchester Township Council.
It was a moving morning of musical remembrances, featuring Marisiya Goins who sang the “National Anthem” and “Amazing Grace,” bagpiper John Giblin, who performed the “Military Medley,” and Athens Licitra, who performed “Taps” to close the ceremony.
Honored guest speakers included retired U.S. Army Captain Roland R. Zeh, who spoke passionately about the sacrifices Veterans made throughout our nation’s history, and Rev. Daniel Schnitzer, Whiting Bible Church, who offered the Invocation and Benediction. Veterans in attendance were honored with certificates commemorating their decorated service presented by Geri Oliverie Hennicke of Oliverie Funeral Home.
On behalf of Mayor Hankins and the Township Council, Manchester Township remains grateful to everyone who attended and participated in creating such a memorable ceremony honoring our local Veterans, year after year. This annual tradition holds significant meaning to all of our Veterans, as well as our Manchester community that gathers to honor their service.
A very special thank you goes to Manchester Recreation and our Veterans Advisory Committee for organizing this annual tradition, and to Buildings and Grounds for assisting with event staging. Additionally, thank you to the Manchester High School Junior ROTC, Manchester Police , and all of our emergency responders for their continued support of this program and our veterans.
Thank you, Veterans.