Saturday, February 18, 2017, 02:00pm - 04:00pm

About The Event

You are cordially invited to attend a special commemorative program honoring and exploring the role of New Jersey men in the famed Harlem Hellfighters of World War 1.

One hundred years ago, the 15th New York National Guard prepared for deployment in France.  Two thousand enlisted men joined its ranks, including 170+ volunteers from New Jersey.  They represented the wide spectrum of New Jersey's communities, including Ramapough Lenape and Nantikoke Lenape men, and at least three volunteer soldiers from Middlesex County.

The program, "The Harlem Hell-Fighters, the Jersey Connection" is cosponsored by the Afro-American Historical & Genealogical Society, NJ Chapter; the New Brunswick Area Branch of the NAACP; the East Brunswick Human Relations Council; and, the Old Bridge Village Heritage Center (Old Bridge Historic District, East Brunswick).  In addition to the three local county residents, more than 100 men from East Brunswick served in the Great War in various units and branches of service.

The program begins at 2 p.m. on February 18, 2017 at the East Brunswick Library, and attendees are encouraged to arrive prior; doors open to the program at 1 p.m.

The day will consist of two parts; introductory media presentations about the Great War and the Hellfighters, followed by the program on Jersey men in the regiment and their stories.   Some 300+ period newspaper articles from across the country will be on display and there may also be a Living Historian representing the unit and/or time period, with authentic uniform and equipment (sans weapons of course).  Groups are encouraged to bring display items related to the Great War.

This program honors our World War 1 generation and the brave men who fought for democracy and equality.  If you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask.

For more information contact Richard Walling - richwalling@hotmail.com or 732-259-6624.

Contact : richwalling@hotmail.com 732-259-6624
Category: New Jersey