Brick Veteran, 96, Honored Alongside Others at Town Hall Ceremony

Brick Township gave due honors to the veterans of the United States military  throughout the day. Beginning at the flags in front of the township municipal complex, the memorial services continued at the American Legion, and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Brick Memorial Post 348.  

Girls from the Breton Woods Clubhouse had composed some 'thank you' cards with a picture from the clubhouse inside and were passing them out as they walked around after the service. 

One veteran, 96-year-old Jerry Baker, of the 90th Infantry Division during World War II, served during the June 6, 1944 Normandy Invasion at Utah Beach, and in the Battle of the Bulge. He received the Brown Star, also known as the Bronze Star, for force of action.

As his mother was a widow, Baker was 28 before he could join, but he does not regret his experience or choice. 

“I’m the luckiest,” said Baker of his experience. “I lost a few friends, but I was the luckiest.” 

Born in Newark, Baker moved to Brick in 1956 with his wife, Helen L. Baker. They had two sons, Jerry and Larry Baker. Baker’s grandson is considering joining the marines and Baker approves. 

“If you want to join, join," he said.

Turning 97 in February, Baker had some words of wisdom to share. When asked what his secret to longeivity was, he replied simply, “faith and prayer.”

Peter Thomas, of Beachwood, served in the Marine Corps from 1987 until 1991. He joined at 18 years old so he could follow the path to law enforcement. As a result he now serves for the Brick Township Police Department. 

Of his experience, Thomas said the camaraderie was what he loved most. 

To those considering enlisting, they must be “going in for the right reasons. Don’t go in for the wrong,” said Thomas. 

To the veterans, Thomas shared, “Thanks for your sacrifice and time.”

At the ceremony held at town hall, Ed McBride orchestrated a memorial service which gave veterans and civilians the opportunity give and hear the gratitude and the honors given to the men and women who faithfully served their country.

To the veterans, "they stepped up to the plate," said McBride, no matter where they served. "From the mess hall to the front line, every soldier served."

Jim Erksine, of Brick Memorial Post 348 of the American Legion, spoke of the times where complete strangers approached with gratitude and respect for his service as a veteran. 

Similarly, Erksine showed his appreciation to his fellow veterans, “From me to all you veterans, thank you for your service.”

McBride gave an opportunity for any veterans to speak up, but due to the windy weather, none responded with anything more than a salute. 

Wreaths surrounded the impromptu stage set for the commemorative service. 

The VFW gave a rifle salute before Wendi Gordy closed, singing America the Beautiful. McBride invited others to follow them to the various ceremonies throughout the township. 

Every year Brick holds a memorial service. McBride said he appreciates that the township has been able to keep the tradition alive.

“It’s important to remember our veterans,” said McBride. “The town gives a lot of cooperation. Wendi is great; John Lola who sets up everything.” 

As this one town comes together, the country comes together in honor of all the veterans who have served and whose memory continues to serve their country.