By Bernie Kofoet, F.W. Grigg American Legion Post 68

Earlier this year, American Legion Auxiliary Unit 68 applied for and received a September 11th National Day of Service and Remembrance grant through the Corporation for National and Community Service, an organization dedicated to improving lives, strengthening communities, and fostering civic engagement through service and volunteering. One of just 50 grants provided annually – and the only one given in New Jersey – the funds were used to purchase two benches for the World War I monument located in Wellwood Park. One bench will have an inscription remembering the victims of the attack on our country that happened on September 11, 2001; the other inscription will remember the veterans of Post 68.

The monument in Wellwood Park, which remembers Merchantville residents who had served their country in World War I, was dedicated on Armistice Day, November 11, 1921. In preparation of the centennials marking the end of World War I in 2018; and the founding of the American Legion and the establishment of the Frederick W. Grigg Post 68 in 2019, a coalition of different organizations have come together to make enhancements to the monument.

The first part of this restoration project will be dedicated on Saturday, Sept. 9, 9:00 a.m., at Wellwood Park, located at the corner of Maple and Linden avenues in Merchantville. The public is invited to join this special dedication.