Parade to Honor Celebrated Somerset County Marine

Sometimes there's just not enough days to go around, but every week Patch will give you an idea of something to do to relax, spend time with family and just take some time for yourself.

And this weekend, we're inviting you to remember some of our Somerset County history when Raritan Borough honors World War II Marine hero John Basilone in a parade, with additional activities, in an event that will last for three days straight.

Basilone, a Raritan native, was the only Marine to be awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor and the Navy Cross during World War II. He also returned to action after winning the medal, and was killed in action.

Basilone is also the only Marine to have an annual parade in his honor. His story was portrayed in "The Pacific," a miniseries on HBO.

The festivities begin Friday at 7 p.m. with the Summerswing Orchestra playing music from the World War II era in front of the Basilone Statue on Somerset Street.

The ceremonies continue Saturday, starting at 9 a.m. with a Fun Run that includes a 5K run at 9 a.m. and a 1K fun run at 10:30 a.m., all starting at the Stone Castle on Nevius Street.

A Marine Band Concert will then take to the stage for two concerts at 2 p.m and 7 p.m. Saturday at Raritan Valley Community College.

Sunday is the big day, starting with an honoree breakfast at 9 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. at St. Ann's School cafeteria, followed by a church service at 10:30 a.m. at St. Ann's Church.

The Basilone Museum will be open Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Raritan Library.

Finally, the entire weekend of celebration will culminate Sunday with the Basilone Parade on Somerset Street, beginning at 1 p.m. and ending with a ceremony at the Basilone Statue.

Head on out to one or all of the ceremonies throughout the weekend to celebrate this very honorable man in Raritan's, and Somerset County's, history.

For more information, visit the Basilone Parade website.