New Jersey Assembly Bill AJR145

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/22
• Refer: 3/7/22

Caption

Designates September 22 as "John Basilone Day."

Impact

The establishment of 'John Basilone Day' serves not only to commemorate one individual’s bravery but also aims to instill a sense of pride and remembrance within the New Jersey community about its historical figures. The resolution calls for a State proclamation encouraging public officials and citizens to engage in activities that reflect on Basilone's heroism and contributions, thereby fostering a culture of appreciation towards military service and sacrifice.

Summary

AJR145 is a joint resolution introduced in the New Jersey legislature that designates September 22 of each year as 'John Basilone Day.' This day is meant to honor the extraordinary heroism displayed by John Basilone, a New Jersey native known for his valor during key battles in World War II, namely Guadalcanal and Iwo Jima. The resolution highlights Basilone's significant contributions to the military, particularly his courageous actions that led to high honors, including the Congressional Medal of Honor and the Navy Cross.

Contention

Though the bill seems primarily to celebrate a historical figure, the broader implications of officially designating a day in his honor raise discussions around how states memorialize contributions of veterans. Some may see this as a valuable opportunity to educate future generations about the significance of military service, while others may view it as an attempt to galvanize public sentiment towards contemporary military initiatives. Nonetheless, this resolution seeks to unify the state in remembrance of a celebrated figure, reinforcing community ties through historical acknowledgment.