Field Hockey. Track. Lacrosse. Football. Thousands of high school students compete each year on the John Basilone Memorial Field without knowing about the man who the field is dedicated to. A little research into his history confirms that he an individual worthy of honoring. Students who play of this field should be aware his dedication to our country in World War II.
Basilone, a local and national figure, a Raritan native, received the Medal of Honor award after the Battle of Guadalcanal, in which he and a dozen men staved off swarms of Japanese soldiers on Oct. 24-25, 1942. In the end, Basilone and two of his men survived.
He returned home and was given the Medal of Honor Award, before embarking on a war bond tour. Basilone fought with top military brass to return to war, where he eventually died, at age 29, on the first day of the Battle of Iwo Jima. He was awarded the Navy Cross award posthumously, and is recognized by airfields, monuments and bridges across the country. Basilone's story was also told in the 2010 HBO documentary, "The Pacific."
Locally, his memory lives on with an annual parade and a statue on Somerset Street. The John Basilone Bowl, featuring football players from Somerset County schools, is also played every year at Bridgewater-Raritan High School.
Van Note, who is Basilone's niece, said she helped form the organization to help honor her uncle but to also recognize the sacrifices made by the armed forces.
"I think we have to let people understand that we wouldn't be where we are today without our freedom," Van Note said. All that Basilone contributed should be honored with our memory. The school spirit we have and our pride in our athletes in each competition on the field is a tribute to him. Having our sports facility dedicated Basilone makes the entire area proud. Players should want to live the way he did and honor his memory through their dedication on the field.