It is with great Pride That Mount Holly Post #11 of The American Legion, Department of New Jersey announces the 80th Annual Captian Emilio Carranza Memorial Service. The Service was held at 1:00 pm on Saturday July 12th, 2008 at the Emilio Carranza Memorial Park located on Carranza Road in Tabernacle, NJ.
It was a good time to be had by all and to actually meet some of the dignitaries who travel from all over North America to be here for our Mexican Hero Emilio Carranza. We are told that this is the 4th largest historic Latin American site in America.
On behalf of Post #11, I, would like to thank you for visiting our noble affair. Post 11 is very appreciative of your interests and assistance in the rememberence of the Gallant Captain Emilio Carranza and his mission of Goodwill and Peace between Nations.
The Ballet Folkalaro Dancers from New York City ( (718) 592-8456 ) were present to preform cultural dancing in authentic costumes.
July 12th Saturday 1 PM
This was our 80th anniversary for the passing of Emilio. He was found still clutching his flashlight in the Jersey Pines 80 years ago. American Legion Post 11 located the crashed aircraft Excelsior, and stood gaurd over his body in Mount Holly, and accompanied Emilio up to New York and back to Mexico by train where he is one of the National hero's of their country. The ceremony held here is larger than what goes on in Mexico to this day. American Legion Post 11 had sworn an oath that we would keep the Goodwill between our two countries every year by having a ceremony at the crash site deep in the Jersey pine barrens. Some years there have only been a hand full of Legionaries, but each and every year we have been there. Rain or shine, hurricanes wind or heat American Legion Post has never failed to honor there past comrades commitment to Mexico and America. Our brotherhood remains strong to this tradition. We have now incorporated an reenactment of finding Emilio and it is not unheard of to hear the weeping and sobbing and tears in the crowd as Post 11 carries Emilio across the field to the Mexican music of Going Home. Those who faithfully attend can only experience the passion and the feelings of all the people. Wreaths are presented in a warm and friendly way to remind us of the compassion, strength and love this man had for his country. Just like an American by the name of Charles Lindbergh who met Emilio and became friends with deep respect for one another as they both risked their lives for their countries. It is an experience everyone should have at least once.
July 12th, Saturday 3 PM
Following the one hour service, the New Jersey State Police and Burlington County Sheriffs department escorted the attendees back to the picnic area at Seneca High School
A Commemorative Limited Editon Minted Coin Commemorating the event was available for sale in April but has sold out. Orders were taken for a second and final minting. All items honoring the 80th Anniversary will no longer be available again.
Donations will be greatly appreciated. Our Post does a great job but it costs money and we cannot do this without the help from our friends.
If you need any additional information please use our contact us page. So spread the word to one of the best-kept secrets in South Jersey.
Bob Barney
Emilio Carranza Memorial Committee Co-Chairman
Click Here for directions to the Carranza Memorial.
