River Edge Recognizes Veterans with Annual Parade

Dedicated to honoring the men and women who have served in the Armed Forces, the River Edge Fourth of July Parade was held to recognize their memories, sacrifices and triumphs. Leading the way this year was Grand Marshall Robert Levine who was among the World War II heroes honored at the French Consulate on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan on the 65th anniversary of V-E Day — the day Germany surrendered to the Allies.

Levine, at age 19, was a mortar gunner with the 90th Infantry Division that landed at Normandy's Utah Beach. He was later captured by German soldiers at Foret de Mont Castre; injured during the battle he had his right leg amputated just below the knee. Levine is the borough's National Organization Disability representative.

Following the parade, families and parade participants flocked into Veteran's Memorial Park for the annual Family Fun Fair where children could partake in games or chow down on the grilled feast by the Ancient Order of Hibernians. Local classic rock band The Jumpin Dragons entertained the crowd with their unique takes on modern hits and the golden oldies.