Rain Fails to Dampen Spirits as Village of Ridgewood Observes 107th Annual Memorial Day Service
photos courtesy of the Village of Ridgewood and the Bergen County Executive James Tedesco
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
RIDGEWOOD, NJ — Demonstrating the unwavering strength of local tradition, residents and officials gathered on Monday morning to observe the Village of Ridgewood’s 107th consecutive Memorial Day Service.
Organized by the Ridgewood American Legion Post 53, the solemn ceremony moved indoors to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church due to early morning rain. The service served as a powerful tribute to the brave men and women from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the United States—specifically honoring the 114 Ridgewood residents who never returned home.
Community Leaders and Speakers Unite
The event featured a diverse lineup of local leaders, veterans, and youth speakers who shared messages of gratitude, remembrance, and community unity. Notable speakers included:
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Lou Francis — Commander, American Legion Post 53
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Rev. Jakov Vidov — Spiritual Reflection
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Paul Vagianos — Mayor of the Village of Ridgewood
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James Tedesco — Bergen County Executive
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Ed Houlihan & Chris Stout — Dedicated local Legionnaires
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Grace Kim — Ridgewood High School Senior
“Despite the early morning rain, the Village of Ridgewood came together this Memorial Day… to honor those we’ve lost in the line of duty,” Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco shared on social media following the event. “One hundred fourteen sons and daughters of Ridgewood have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. Thank you to American Legion Post 53 for organizing this ceremony.”
A Musical Tribute to the Fallen
The emotional depth of the service was heightened by local musical talent, bringing together community vocalists and student musicians from the Ridgewood public school system.
| Contributor / Group | Performance Details |
| Sally Ann Tumas Skoric | Featured Soloist |
| RHS Choir & A Cappella Programs | Choral Arrangements |
| RHS Wind Ensemble | Instrumental Accompaniment and Tributes |
The Village of Ridgewood extends its deepest gratitude to all the organizers, volunteers, musicians, and attendees who continue to ensure that the sacrifices of Ridgewood’s 114 fallen heroes are never forgotten.
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