Glassboro’s Memorial Day Parade to pay tribute to Grand Marshal Charles J. Gallagher and will showcase the beloved children's bike brigade, lively string bands, and esteemed local veteran groups.

GLASSBORO, NEW JERSEY --- The Borough of Glassboro is inviting Southern New Jersey residents to honor local veterans at this year’s Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony in Downtown Glassboro. The event will commence at 10am on Monday, May 27, 2024.

With a rich history spanning over a century, the patriotic Glassboro Memorial Day Parade serves as a poignant tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in battle. The parade features award-winning string bands, the beloved children's bike brigade, local businesses, and nonprofits, as well as a diverse array of military veteran groups.

2024’s Grand Marshal is Vietnam Veteran and Glassboro resident Charles J. Gallagher. Charles enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1967 and was deployed to Vietnam in 1968 with Delta Company, 1st Battalion, 26 Marines, 5th Marine Division. He arrived in Khe Sanh on January 20, 1968, just before the North Vietnamese launched their second Tet Offenses, with Khe Sanh as their primary target. On June 6, 1968, while patrolling as Regimental Point man, Charles was severely wounded and subsequently retired from the Marine Corps in 1969 due to his injuries.

In 1994, Charles began his volunteer work with the South Jersey Vietnam Veterans Association and Semper Fidelis Marine Corps League. He is a member of the South Jersey Vietnam Veterans Association, as well as The Veterans of Foreign War, The Military Order of the Purple Heart, The American Legion, and The Disabled American Veterans, all located at Glassboro Memorial Post. Charles also volunteers at Gloucester County Veterans Affairs and is an Accredited Claims Agent for the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, Office of General Council. He dedicates his time to ensuring that veterans receive the representation they require for compensation and healthcare from the VA, as well as helping them access the assistance they deserve, often without realizing they are entitled to it. He and his wife, Melanie, have been residents of Glassboro for the past 30 years.

"It is such an honor to have Charles Gallagher, a true patriot and hero, as this year's Grand Marshal. His service, exemplary career, and commitment to veterans is an inspiration to all. As we celebrate and honor our fallen service members, it is a great privilege to have him as part of Glassboro’s annual tradition,” stated John E Wallace, Mayor of Glassboro

Additionally, Glassboro has requested and has received pending approval for an Air Force fighter jet flyover at roughly 10:20 am on Monday, May 27th. The F16 jets will be flown by the New Jersey Air National Guard 177th Fighter Wing in Atlantic City and will soar over the Veteran’s Memorial Monument located in Glassboro’s Town Square at the corner of High and Main and continue over the parade route as it approaches downtown.

The annual Memorial Day Parade is coordinated by the Glassboro VFW, the American Legion, Borough employees and residents. "This cherished tradition not only honors the bravery and sacrifice of our Armed Forces, but also unites us in gratitude and patriotism," expressed Anna Miller, Glassboro Council President. “Let us pay tribute to our heroes who courageously protect us worldwide and celebrate the spirit of resilience that defines our great country."

Road closures for the parade will be in place starting at 7am and residents are encouraged to line the streets along the parade route, which begins at the corner of Lehigh and University, making its way downtown on Whitney and High streets, ending at Academy. Once the parade is complete, a ceremony will be held at the Veteran’s Memorial Monument, located in Glassboro’s Town Square, featuring comments from local dignitaries as well as Grand Marshal Charles J. Gallagher.

For more information, please contact the Glassboro Parade Committee at 856-881-9230 ext. 88149.

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Memorial Day Parade 2024

Glassboro’s Memorial Day Parade to pay tribute to Grand Marshal Charles J. Gallagher and will showcase the beloved children's bike brigade, lively string bands, and esteemed local veteran groups.