On Thanksgiving Day, (Thursday, November 25, 2021) a warm welcome and a Thanksgiving feast came as a surprise to some out of state active military personnel that are currently training and were unable to be home with their families.

American Legion Post 372 of Cherry Hill hosted the Thanksgiving Dinner and a Memorial Service for the 13 Servicemembers that were killed in Afghanistan in August 2021.

Dignitaries, Congressman Donald Norcross, Camden County Veterans Affairs Director Ted Gallagher, Cherry Hill Town Council David Fleisher and Brian Buarele, Cherry Hill Police Chief Larry Robb and American Legion Post 372 Commander Joe Merimonde spoke at a touching ceremony when they arrived.

Over 100 motorcycles led by the Camden County Police Department and Cherry Hill Police Department, picked up the heroes and escorted them to the American Legion. Motorcycle groups included AM Vet Riders, American Legion Riders, Centurions MC, Elks Riders, Masonic Riders, Nam Knights of America MC, Warriors Watch Riders, and Widows Sons Riders.

At the American Legion, the Cherry Hill Fire Department was on hand with their truck and big American Flag - over 40 Jeeps lined the field, flags flying and patriotic music playing as they awaited their arrival - Jeep Clubs included the Garden State Jeep Club and NJ Jeep Association Members of local veterans organizations, Patriot Connections, the community, Cub Scouts, Boys Scouts, Mission BBQ and others were on hand for a very patriotic welcoming before they were escorted inside the Hall for their Thanksgiving Dinner and Memorial, presented by members of American Legion Post 372.

While we were saddened that these heroes could not be home with their families, we were honored to have the opportunity to show our support, provide a Thanksgiving Meal and welcome them to town! Many thanks to everyone who participated!

(Patriot Connections founder Sue Quinn-Morris is also long time member and a special event coordinator for the American Legion Post 372)