Story by: SFC (R) Harvey L. Craig
Photos by: MAJ (R) Crosby Munro
On June 26, 2023, the New Jersey Society of the Daughters of the American, the Sons of the Revolution in the State of New Jersey, and the New Jersey Society of the Sons of the American Revolution dedicated a historical interpretive marker near the gravesite of Mary and Jacob Francis at the Flemington New Jersey Baptist Church in front of a crowd of almost ninety guests and dignitaries. The Combined Color Guards of the SR-NJ and the SAR were joined by the Irvington New Jersey High School “Crusaders” Junior ROTC Color Guard.
Jacob Francis was a free Black man born in Amwell Township and died in Flemington, New Jersey. During his long life, he was involved in both the American Revolution and the struggle for equal rights. Bound out as an indentured servant from childhood until age 21, he lived in New Jersey, New York, St. John in the West Indies, and Salem, Massachusetts. After completing his indenture time, he enlisted in the Continental Army in October 1775 at a time when General Washington was trying to prevent Black men from enlisting. He served through the siege of Boston, the New York Campaign, and the Battle of Trenton before his enlistment expired on January 1, 1777. After his Continental service, he served in the Third Hunterdon County Regiment of the New Jersey militia for the remainder of the war. He had survived great hardships and dangers while performing in a complimentary fashion.
To see more pictures and read more about Jacob Francis visit New Jersey Society Sons of Revolution
Fort Hamilton High School – Tiger Battalion Sisters Make Tunnel 2 Tower (T2T) Promotional Video
Each year, the Fort Hamilton Tiger Battalion eagerly volunteers for the T2T run, a heartfelt event that pays tribute to our fallen service members. Cadets gather near the finish line, proudly holding banners that showcase the names and photos of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.
Winters Mill High School – Winters Mill High School JROTC “Falcon Battalion” Marches in Honor at Westminster Memorial Day Parade
On Memorial Day, the cadets of Winters Mill High School’s Army JROTC Falcon Battalion proudly participated in the annual Westminster Memorial Day Parade, honoring the men and women who gave their lives in service to the nation. Their presence brought discipline, pride, and a sense of solemn respect to this meaningful community event in WESTMINSTER, MD on May 26, 2025.
Waimea High School – Waimea High School JROTC Hosts Annual Awards Ceremony & Change of Command
On May 9th, family, friends, teachers, and community members came together in the Waimea High School cafeteria to celebrate the hard work and leadership of the Menehune Battalion Cadets during the 2024-2025 school year. The event highlighted the achievements of cadets from all grade levels and marked another success-filled year for the battalion.
