Rain lashed down. Yet a crowd gathered. They stood before the Hoboken Second World War memorial. This wasn’t just any monument. It was a tribute. A tribute to 159 Hoboken residents. Brave souls who gave their lives fighting in World War II.
The Hoboken Second World War memorial is more than just stone and bronze. It’s a testament to sacrifice. It stands as a poignant reminder. A reminder of the ultimate price paid for freedom. The memorial was a dream. A dream of veteran Roy Huelbrig. Six years he worked for this. He wanted to honor those who served. Especially the 159 who never came home. He was inspired by Tom Brokaw’s book The Greatest Generation. He felt their stories needed to be told. Their sacrifices needed to be recognized.
The memorial’s design is both elegant and moving. A bronze statue of two soldiers stands tall. They stand shoulder to shoulder. Supporting each other. Representing camaraderie and resilience. Twenty-one rifles stand behind them. Their barrels topped with helmets. A silent salute to those who fell.
Many older Hoboken residents knew the names on the marble plaque. The Wallace family lost three sons. Daniel James and William. The Wallace School honors their memory. The original plan was simple. A marble plaque in front of City Hall. Mayor Dave Roberts had a grander vision. There were other ideas too. Bronze rifles and helmets along the waterfront. That was scrapped. Environmental concerns. Then a spot near the Hudson River. Too costly. Finally the ideal location was chosen. Next to Frank Sinatra Park. The memorial’s backdrop is stunning. The Manhattan skyline rising in the distance.
The project’s completion was a long journey. It took years of planning fundraising and overcoming obstacles. Funding came from the city and the state. Then-Senate Majority leader Bernard Kenny secured a $250,000 grant. The final cost was $750,000.
As the rain continued to fall Huelbrig’s words echoed. “When I first saw it I cried. It feels wonderful. We were trying to get this thing done before I died.” The Hoboken Second World War memorial is a testament to the enduring spirit of a community. A community that remembers and honors its fallen heroes. It’s a place for reflection. A place to honor the legacy of the greatest generation. And a reminder of the price of freedom.