Haskell, NJ – Allen C. Magie, an 18-year-old resident of Haskell, New Jersey and current freshman at Saint Thomas Aquinas College in Sparkhill, New York adopted his local cemetery for the fifth consecutive year as a Wreaths Across America location to remember and honor Veterans laid to rest during the Holiday Season.
Over 200 Veterans are laid to rest at Midvale Cemetery located at 332 Ringwood Avenue in the Borough of Wanaque. The cemetery is maintained by members of the James W. McCartney VFW Post #6765 located in Wanaque. On Saturday, December 14, 2024, Allen was joined by members of the VFW and Auxiliary, as well as members of American Legion Post #246 located in Haskell, members of the Wanaque Police Department, Wanaque Mayor Daniel Mahler, members of the Wanaque Town Council, friends, family and community members to uphold the mission of Wreaths Across America: Remember, Honor, Teach.
In his opening remarks, Allen shared information regarding Midvale Cemetery’s 2024 wreath count. “This year, 344 wreaths were sold which is now our record high. Two hundred seventy-five wreaths were shipped here to our location, ensuring every Veteran receives one. The extra wreaths were donated to Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Totowa. Our help brought them closer to their wreath count, and they were very appreciative of our assistance.”
Wreaths Across America is a national nonprofit organization founded in 2007 expanding the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery which began in 1992 when Maine businessman Morrill Worcester donated the first 5,000 wreaths to be placed at Arlington. In 2005, the iconic photo of “Wreaths in the Snow” became a viral sensation promoting the idea of expanding Wreaths Across America, and in 2006, with help from civic organizations, wreath-laying ceremonies were held at over 150 locations around the country. In 2007, Wreaths Across America became an official nonprofit organization with daily operations continuing to be managed by the Worcester Family. In 2012, Wreaths Across America laid the one millionth wreath at Arlington, and in 2014, for the first time ever, a wreath was placed on every headstone at Arlington. In 2016, wreaths were placed at Arlington for the 25th consecutive year. In 2018, Wreaths Across America advanced its operations overseas by placing 9,387 wreaths at Normandy-American Cemetery in France. In 2020, 1.7 million wreaths at 2,557 participating locations were placed during the pandemic as volunteers adapted to conditions to carry out their mission to honor Veterans. 2021 marked the 30th consecutive year wreaths have been placed at Arlington, and 2022 saw the expansion to include more than 3,728 participating locations in every U.S. state and territory including Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guam and the Virgin Islands. In 2023, three million wreaths were placed at 4,224 locations by more than three million volunteers, a third of whom were children. Wreaths Across America’s mission is to Remember the fallen, Honor those who serve and Teach the next generation the value of freedom. Since 2008, Congress has proclaimed one Saturday each December as National Wreaths Across America Day.
The 2024 Wreaths Across America theme was Live with Purpose. The theme was derived from the remarkable stories of volunteers whose impactful work in their communities is a beacon of inspiration for all. Executive Director of Wreaths Across America, Karen Worcester, shared her thoughts on why this theme is important. As posted on the official website of Wreaths Across America, Karen stated the following: “Over the course of the last year, and then especially while on the escort to Arlington last December, I listened to people who had gone through great adversity, and they’d taken that adversity and turned it around as a ‘call-to-action’ to spend the rest of their lives making sure that eerie day was meaningful and that they lived with purpose.” Wreaths Across America plans to share a monthly video series focusing on the importance of honoring and respecting our Veterans. Wreaths Across America will continue its commitment to supporting and bringing attention to the needs of our Veterans while showcasing continued contributions of those who serve.
When asked what inspired him to adopt his local cemetery as a Wreaths Across America location, Allen reflected on a past memory. “When I was about ten years old, my Mom and I were visiting Holy Sepulchre Cemetery where my Pop is buried. I observed various volunteers laying wreaths. My Mom and I asked a volunteer why wreaths were being placed on graves; he explained the mission of Wreaths Across America, and I knew this was an event I wanted to take part in. My parents promised I’d be able to participate once I entered high school; so in 2020, I brought my idea of adopting Midvale Cemetery to Janet Hoeland, Treasurer of the James W. McCartney Post #6765 Auxiliary. Jan graciously helped me connect with Bob Tennant, Commander of the VFW. Together, the three of us planned the very first Wreaths Across America ceremony to be held at Midvale Cemetery, and here we are five years later still working together on this project. Both of my grandfathers served in the military as well. My pop, Chuck served in the Army during Vietnam, and my grandpa, Al served in the Navy aboard the USS Barry. Unfortunately, both of my grandfathers have passed away, but I hope they’re looking down and smiling knowing I remember them each and every day, and I am proud of their service.”
Allen begins organizing the Wreaths Across America event during the summer months spending countless hours preparing. In early August, he meets with Bob and Jan outlining the ceremony specifics and to discuss any improvements or changes needed; then, Allen sets out to begin working to promote wreath sales. “I’m honored to work with Bob and Jan. Bob, Jan and the VFW and Auxiliary members have provided continuous support for this project. Having the opportunity to connect with VFW members is a pleasure, and I thank each of them for their service. Many VFW and Auxiliary members are here today laying wreaths honoring our military. Once again, a special thanks to Jan who is one of my favorite people. Without Jan, this event would never have come to life,” Allen commented. “Getting to know Bob through this project has been a rewarding experience, as we have formed a lasting friendship,” Allen added.
Robert Kronyak, former Police Chief of Wanaque, has also been instrumental promoting the ceremony each year. “Chief retired after 33 years of service to our community. He now serves as a member of the Wanaque Town Council. I still call him ‘Chief,’ because I’ve known him since I was a student at Haskell Elementary School, and I can’t bring myself to call him anything but ‘Chief,’” Allen said with a smile. “Chief has always been a community supporter and actively participates in local events. He wears his heart on his sleeve exemplifying the definition of service. He is a role model and friend, and no words can express how thankful to have his support of this event each year,” Allen continued.
“In addition, Mayor Dan Mahler and Councilmen Robert Pettet and Dominick Cortallessa are here laying wreaths which further brings our community together. A special thanks to John Kaminski and members of the American Legion Post #246 in Haskell for being here as well. Wanaque Police Chief Keith Spillane and Sergeant Ashley Higgins also joined us. I appreciate the police department taking time out of their schedules to stop by and spend time with us. It takes a lot of dedication ensuring this is a successful event, and everyone here plays a part in that success,” Allen stated.
Each year Allen invites honorary service members representing each branch of the military to take part in the ceremonial wreath presentation. “The presentation of ceremonial wreaths is my favorite portion of the ceremony. It allows us to hear stories of America’s service members and adds an element of pride by signifying the courage and bravery endured for the protection of our freedom,” Allen explained.
The ceremonial wreath representing the Army was presented by Michael Freimuth. Michael joined the Army following graduation from college in 2008. He served for eight years between Active Duty and the Reserves. He deployed to Afghanistan with the 101st Airborne Division “Screaming Eagles” in support of Operation Enduring Freedom as part of the surge of American troops into that country. Active in Southern and Eastern Afghanistan, his Unit contributed to reversing the momentum of the Taliban and provided stabilization to the fledgling nation.
Barry Milligan presented the ceremonial wreath on behalf of the Marines. Barry served for sixteen years with the Marines. He served three years of active duty and thirteen in the Reserves with the Six Motor Transport Battalion reaching the rank of Staff Sergeant. Barry is a Veteran of Desert Storm and was a member of the New Jersey Army National Guard 113th Infantry. Barry is currently Senior Vice Commandant of the Lakeland Marine Corps League Detachment #744. He has also served his community as a Cub and Scout Master in Pompton Lakes for over twenty years.
The ceremonial wreath representing the Navy was presented by Edward Telep. Edward enlisted in the Navy at age 17 entering the Naval Training Center in Orlando, Florida in December of 1972. After completing boot camp earning the rank of Fireman, he was assigned to Engine-Man A School in Great Lakes, Illinois graduating as an Engineer, 3rd Class and was ordered to Roosevelt Roads Naval Station in Puerto Rico where he was assigned to Surface Operations, Target Division. He transferred to the USS Edenton , a salvage and rescue ship embarking on Mediterranean and North Atlantic voyages. In July of 1976, Edward and his ship participated in the Nation’s Bicentennial Celebration in New York Harbor. He completed active duty in December of 1976 and returned to New Jersey where he served two years on Inactive Reserve Duty until he was officially Honorably Discharged in 1978.
Jeffrey LaCouture presented ceremonial wreaths for the Air Force and Space Force. A1C Jeffrey LaCouture graduated from Lakeland Regional High School in 2023. During his senior year, Jeffrey enlisted in the United States Air Force. Jeffrey currently works as an Intelligence Analyst at the 177th Fighter Wing in Atlantic City, New Jersey and also attends Ramapo College of New Jersey. Bob Magee presented the wreath representing the Coast Guard. Bob entered the Coast Guard in July of 1965 at age 17. He trained in the Philadelphia Naval Yard for Damage Control and Firefighting School while working as an Air/Sea Rescue Swimmer. Bob worked with Customs and Immigration, Homeland Security and the DEA on drug searches and seizures. He was attached to CGC W203, a Search and Rescue Ship for firefighting, aids to navigation, high sea rescue and skin diving in search of survivors during plane crashes as well as ship and boat sinkings. After being discharged, he worked at Pompton Auto Body for ten years building and painting custom cars and motorcycles. He purchased the business in 1986 and is still the owner. Bob attended William Paterson University and the University of New Haven where he attained his teaching certificate. Bob taught Automotive and Collision at Bergen County Tech in Teterboro retiring after 21 years of service. He resides in Haskell with his wife of 54 years.
The wreath representing the Merchant Marines was presented by Nicholas Starace. Nicholas graduated from the United States Merchant Marine Academy with a BS degree in Marine Engineering, a US Coast Guard Third Engineer’s License and an Ensign’s Commission in the US Navy. He graduated from Stevens Institute of Technology with a Masters in Mechanical Engineering and sailed on the flagship of the United States Merchant Marine, the SS United States , as an Engineering Officer. He served in the US Navy and Naval Reserve for twelve years achieving the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a USCG License as Captain, Merchant Marine Officer, 100 Tons. An international executive with a major oil company, he was the Vice 4
President in charge of the company’s worldwide ship construction program. He lived overseas for 12 years and has visited 103 countries. Nicholas and his wife were passengers on the terrorist bombing of Pan Am Flight 830 in 1981; they both narrowly survived. An avid ship modeler, Nicholas builds museum-quality, “Best of Show” models and is a member of the Mercedes Benz Club, Screen Actors Guild, and is Past-President of the Ship Model Society of NJ. He authored the book, White Sails Became Me where a modern-day renaissance man takes his readers on a worldwide journey of adventure. Nicholas capped off his career serving for 20 years as a VA hospital volunteer which he says, “is the most rewarding experience of his life. ”
The National Guard wreath was presented by Michael Buttros. SFC Michael Buttros has spent seventeen years in the National Guard. He is currently a full-time member of the New Jersey National Guard with the Recruiting and Retention Battalion for the last seven years at the Riverdale National Guard Recruiting Station. SFC Buttros has served with the 114 th Infantry Battalion in Woodbury, New Jersey and the 102 nd Cavalry in Westfield, New Jersey as a 68 Whiskey- Combat Medic and Medical NCOIC. He also has conducted training missions to Germany as well as numerous state missions that include Super Storm Sandy and several COVID Missions. He currently works as the Assistant Section Chief of his recruiting and retention battalion team.
The wreath representing those who have received Purple Heart Commendation was presented by Edward Benedict. Edward was drafted to the Army on December 27, 1965. He completed Basic Training at Fort Dix in New Jersey, Advanced Infantry Training at Fort Gordon in Georgia and Airborne Training at Fort Benning in Georgia. He was sent to Vietnam on July 10, 1966 and was assigned to A Company, 1st Battalion, 27th Regiment, Wolfounds, 25th Infantry Division at Cu Chi, Republic of Vietnam. Edward was wounded in action three times: November 4, 1966, January 12,1967 and March 14, 1967 for which he has received three Purple Hearts. He returned to the states as a Sergeant on July 10, 1967 and was sent to Fort Bragg in North Carolina with the 82nd Airborne Division until his discharge on December 15, 1967. Upon returning home, he went back to his previous job at a machine shop in Totowa, New Jersey until he was appointed to the Totowa Borough Police Department on April 1, 1977 where he served for thirty years until retiring in 2007 with the rank of Deputy Chief. He has been married to his wife Carol for 54 years, has two children and five grandchildren.
The ceremonial wreath honoring POWs and MIAs was presented by Barbara Burnett who was accompanied by her grandchildren, Mackenzie and Hunter Baker. Barbara is the daughter of POW Veteran Richard DeGraw who is buried at Midvale Cemetery. Richard was a member of Battery D of the 634th AAA.A.W.BN. Richard was taken as a Prisoner of War with his Battery on December 20, 1944 during the Battle of the Bulge. When captured, Richard weighed 170 pounds; when he was released after 118 days as a POW, he weighed only 86 pounds. He was wearing the same clothing he had been captured in on the day of his release. Upon returning to the U.S., Richard remained at Fort Knox until receiving his official discharge papers on November 8, 1945. After returning home, Richard met his wife Norma. Richard and Norma resided in Bloomingdale, and they remained happily married for 49 ½ years until his passing in 1995. Also in attendance were Richard’s granddaughter, Stephanie Baker and her husband Dwayne.
This year Allen added additional ceremonial wreaths to represent Gold Star Families. Gold Star Families are those who have lost their loved ones while on active military duty, have died due to their service or are considered Missing in Action. Allen reached out to the New Jersey Gold Star Mothers group and was lucky enough to receive responses from two Gold Star Mothers who were willing to attend the ceremony. “Today, I am humbled and honored to share that in attendance, for the first time at Midvale Cemetery, we have two families who have experienced the true definition of what it means to pay the ultimate sacrifice, as they are known as Gold Star Families. I have been communicating with Mrs. Cosgrove-Bowie and Mrs. Parrello via email regarding the service of their sons, Christopher and Brian over the past few weeks; but meeting these moms for the first time in person today was so special to me. There are no appropriate words to express the gratitude I feel for these families and their sons. It was such an honor to share the stories of Chris and Brian today,” Allen shared.
The first Gold Star Family ceremonial wreath was presented by Nino and Shirley Parrello, parents of fallen Marine Lance Corporal Brian P. Parrello. Marine Lance Corporal Brian P. Parrello was a West Milford resident who attended West Milford High School. He was passionate about sports, especially football and ice hockey. Brian planned to attend college and become a history teacher; however, after the 9-11 attacks, there was something he felt he had to do first: join the Marines. Brian enlisted with the Marines while he was a senior in high school, and he knew full well the danger that may lie ahead. He went through boot camp at Parris Island, South Carolina and following graduation, Brian was assigned to Small Craft Company, Headquarters Battalion of the 2nd Marine Division’s II Marine Expeditionary Force based at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Brian was deployed to Iraq in September of 2004. He was a member of the 2nd Marine Division, Smallcraft Company, 4th Platoon and patrolled the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers on swift boats and provided security for the Hadithah Dam. Brian was the coxswain of the boat. While on patrol in Hadithah, Iraq, a city along the Euphrates River approximately 130 miles northeast of Baghadad, Brian’s unit suffered enemy attack. Brian was killed in action by an IED on January 1, 2005 at the age of 19. He was the only member of his platoon who did not return home. Brian was loving and loyal to his family leaving behind his parents, Nino and Shirley and his twin brothers Matthew and Anthony.
After sharing Brian’s story with those in attendance, Allen added the following words: “Brian gave his life serving our country but most importantly, risked his own protecting our freedoms. His courage and drive to serve is more commendable than any words can ever describe. Please join me in a moment of silence to thank and remember Marine Lance Corporal Brian P. Parrello for his service.”
The second Gold Star Family ceremonial wreath was presented by Art and Charlene Cosgrove-Bowie, parents of fallen Marine Lance Corporal Christopher B. Cogrove III. Marine Lance Corporal Christopher B. Cosgrove III attended Whippany Park High School where he was a dedicated member of the football, wrestling and lacrosse teams. Christopher resided in the Cedar Knolls section of Hanover Township with his mom, Charlene and his stepdad, Art. He graduated from Whippany Park High School in 2001 and attended Monmouth University majoring in History. During college, Christopher played rugby with the Monmouth County Rugby Team. Christopher always felt he had a call to serve, and prior to graduating from college, he enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserves with Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 25th Marines based at Picatinny Arsenal in April of his junior year. He graduated from boot camp at Parris Island, South Carolina in August of 2004. In 2005, he graduated from Monmouth University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and immediately entered School of Infantry training at Camp Geiger, North Carolina. Christopher and 39 fellow Marines volunteered to serve with the 1st Battalion, 25th Marines from Connecticut and deployed to Fallujah, Iraq with Charlie Company in early 2006. While serving in Iraq, Christopher was nominated and had accepted to serve as the Marine Corps League Slattery Detachment #206 as Junior Vice-Commandant upon returning home. On October 1st, 2006 while conducting combat operations, Christopher was killed by a suicide car bomber at an entry control point in Fallujah; he was less than one week away from leaving Iraq to return home. Christopher left behind his mother and stepfather Charlene and Arthur, his father and stepmother Christopher and Eileen, as well as his half -brothers Kevin and Brian. Christopher also left behind his fiancee, Jessica who he planned to marry in August of 2007 when he arrived home .
Allen then shared the following words with the crowd: “Christopher selflessly risked his own life following his path to serve. His dedication and love of country is one mimicking courage and sacrifice. Please join me in a moment of silence to thank and remember Marine Lance Marine Lance Corporal Christopher B. Cosgrove III for his service.”
Allen gave recognition to family members and friends who assist in creating a successful annual event. “I could not hold this event each year without the assistance of my parents, Al and Dawn. I am thankful that my parents taught me, at a young age, the importance of honoring our Veterans and military. A big thanks also goes out to my grandma, otherwise known as ‘Mama,’ for providing lunch at the VFW after the ceremony. A special thanks to my friend, mentor and bagpipe instructor, Joe Smolinski for joining me to play Amazing Grace on bagpipes. Joe is a great role model sharing the same respect for our military as I do. I extend thanks to Denise and Ashley Pettet, for graciously leading us in song for our National Anthem and God Bless America . Thank you to Logan Leeds who volunteered to play TAPS at the conclusion of wreath-laying. I would also like to thank Nick Starace for reading the poem “Just A Common Soldier” at the closing of our ceremony. Nick and I met five years ago while I was searching for a ceremonial wreath presenter to represent the Merchant Marine. Since then, Nick and I have formed a special friendship,” Allen explained.
Allen is no stranger to community service. He is a 2024 graduate of Paramus Catholic High School. During all four years, Allen was a recipient of the Saint Teresa of Calcutta Award for completing a minimum of 100 hours of community service. During his freshman year, he was presented with the award for Most Service Hours for the Freshman Class. As a senior, Allen was awarded with the Principal’s Award and was named Big North Student Athlete of the Year. Allen paid tribute to his high school alma mater by sharing the following thoughts: “PC was not just a school to me, it was a family. At PC, I was provided with the tools to be successful on my next path in life, and the PC staff encouraged me to continue making a difference through volunteerism and service. I am blessed to have attended PC. Today, the Dean of Students, Jacki McKenna is here with Mr. Freimuth who presented the ceremonial wreath representing the Army. I’m a PC graduate, yet the staff still shows their support. I will forever be a Paladin.”
Allen has also been a member of the Henrik Lundqvist Foundation Young Ambassador (HLFYA) Program since 2019, where he has served as Ambassador, Mentor, President and President Emeritus. HLFYA empowers young individuals to perform community service through the formation of independent service projects and HLFYA events. “HLFYA has provided opportunities ensuring my success in making a positive impact through service. When I first became a member of HLFYA, I was a young kid with zero confidence. Through the program, I have experienced the power young people have in our own communities. HLFYA is an organization I am honored to be a part of as I’ve learned no act of kindness is too small; any act of service can change someone’s life,” Allen commented. Allen was also recognized by the Henrik Lundqvist Foundation as the 2024 S.AV.E. Scholar of the Year. The scholarship recognizes S ervice, A cademics, V alues and character E xcellence.
When asked what inspires him to participate in community service projects, Allen gave accolades to his parents: “My parents have shown how important volunteerism is throughout my life. My Dad is the founder of the nonprofit organization Skate It Forward, Inc. I have learned the importance of finding my own inner voice to help others. We all have the tools inside our hearts to give back. Find your passion and start from there remembering you will make an impact.”
Allen has played ice hockey since age four and currently plays on the hockey team at Saint Thomas Aquinas College where he is majoring in Marketing with a minor in Sports Management. He is a member of Claddagh Pipe Band of West Milford. Allen is an employee of Twin Willows Par 3 in Lincoln Park and also works by assisting in coaching hockey camps and clinics for Topline and the MSG Junior Rangers program. During the summer, he also works as a counselor for Army West Point Hockey Camp at the United States Military Academy.
This year’s ceremony included an unexpected surprise for Allen as he received an award from American Legion Post #246. “Each year, John attends the ceremony to lead us in prayer. I had no idea once this year’s prayer commenced, John would be presenting me with an award for my dedication of five years of service to Wreaths Across America. Admittedly, I was choked up; here I am honoring our Veterans and they’re presenting me with an award. It was definitely a surprise,” Allen explained. “This was a very humbling moment for me because our military deserves recognition, not me.”
When asked if he plans to continue holding a Wreaths Across America ceremony at Midvale Cemetery in the future, Allen promptly responded, “Absolutely. I will hold this event as long as I can. Supporting our Veterans and paying thanks to our military is my passion. I am blessed to have formed relationships with our Veterans and I thank them all for their service,” Allen said.
To close the ceremony Allen addressed the crowd with inspiring words: “In closing today, I want to share my thoughts on why continuing to hold an annual Wreaths Across America ceremony is important. Doing so assists in remembering Veterans of our community and thanking them for their service. But it is more than that; today, more than ever, it is crucial for my generation and the generations that follow to recognize and acknowledge the importance of our Veterans and military.These men and women have dedicated their lives to serve our country, making personal sacrifices while protecting our freedoms . Today and everyday, they deserve recognition for their courage and service. Honoring our military and Veterans maintains a sense of unity and exemplifies appreciation for sacrifices made to uphold our way of life which includes our freedom. It takes seconds to say, ‘thank you;’ if you see a Veteran or service member, I encourage you to approach them and simply say, ‘Thank you for your service.’” For more information regarding Wreaths Across America please visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org
Written by Allen C. Magie
