Memorial Day | Jewish Historical Society

M emorial Day, (previously known as “Decoration Day”) is celebrated on the last Monday in May to honor service members who have died in military service to our country. The holiday has roots dating back to the post-Civil War era when citizens would informally place spring flower memorials on the graves of fallen soldiers. Today, Memorial Day is often associated with the start of summer, discount sales and cookouts; however, we should all take the time to pay tribute to the fallen. Below are archived photos showing past remembrances.

YMHA parade, Paterson NJ, Great War, circa 1917 — YMHA parade in Paterson welcoming the boys who are about to depart for France during the Great War Circa 1917.

River Edge NJ, Bob Levine, grandson, Utah Beach France, 2004 — River Edge resident Bob Levine with his grandson Andrew at Utah Beach in France, 2004.

Bridge dedicated to War heroes, Paterson NJ, August 1932 — Notables gather to dedicate bridge to war heroes, 1932.

JWV Reuben Kaufman Post 36, Barnert Temple, Paterson NJ — George Kearns, mayor of North Haledon to speak at JWV Reuben Kaufman Post 36 memorial services at Barnert Temple, Paterson. Date unknown.

Ruth Oradick (B'nai B'rith President), Marge Bornstein, Evelyn Smith, May LeVine — B'Nai Brith Memorial Presentation, 1958. Ruth Oradick, President, is holding the bouquet of flowers. Marge Bornstein is behind the flowers in white suit. Evelyn Smith is second from right and May LeVine is on the far right. Location of this monument is unknown.