TOMS RIVER, NJ – The Ocean County Veterans Day Parade, set for November 11 in downtown Toms River, will be spearheaded by two grand marshals, George M. Convery Jr. and Robert “Bob” Hayes, both Toms River natives and distinguished veterans. The parade, starting at 9:45 a.m., will commence at the Toms River Shopping Center on Route 37, moving south on Main Street and east onto Washington Street.
The event promises a rich display, including military vehicles, elected officials, civic groups, first responders, local high school marching bands, and vintage cars. Convery, a United States Navy veteran, and Hayes, who served in the New Jersey National Guard and the U.S. Army, received proclamations from the Toms River Governing Body in October.
Convery’s military career includes deployments in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, and he now serves as a heavy equipment operator with the Toms River Township Public Works. Additionally, he is a volunteer firefighter and Trustee at East Dover Fire Company. Hayes, after his service, joined the Dover Township Police Department, contributing for 26 years and later joining the Funeral Honor Guard of the New Jersey National Guard. He is involved in community service through FOP Lodge #10.
Rich Monticello, Parade Chair of the Toms River Veterans Commission, expressed honor and gratitude for having these veterans lead the parade.