Tree Lighting A Treat For Family That Made The Ultimate Sacrifice

Like most three year olds at this time of year, Lorenzo Marciante of Brick couldn't wait, the excitement building by the minute. He fidgeted with anticipation.

At last the countdown from the crowd, and his moment arrived. With a push on the big switch, Ocean County's holiday tree was lit, a triangular tower of light blue LED lights on a 38-foot Colorado blue spruce at the corner of Washington Street and Hooper Avenue.

"Their family has offered the greatest sacrifice that anyone can offer,'' said Freeholder Gerry P. Little.

Lorenzo's dad, US Army  Cpl. Luigi Marciante Jr., was killed in Iraq on Sept. 20, 2007, when he was just one month old. His mother, Stephanie, also served and was wounded there. She, and his grandparents, Maria and Luigi Marciante, helped Lorenzo with the tree lighting.

They were picked by the freeholders as a tribute "to those who serve and protect our freedom,'' said Freeholder Joseph H. Vicari.

The traditional tree lighting featured seasonal music sing by the Walnut Street Elementary School Wildcat Chorus, directed by Stephanie Higham. Members of the county Buildings and Grounds Department decorated the tree, attaching 1,800 lights and dozens of red bows.