Freeholder Bill O’Dea led marchers down JFK Boulevard in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day on March 13.
Although O’Dea was the star of the event, many eyes were turned towards former councilman Bill Gaughan, who recently retired as chief of staff for the Hudson County Executive.
O’Dea invited Gaughan to walk the last block to the reviewing stands in Journal Square as a gesture of respect.
The parade, which celebrates Irish heritage and honors the life and work of St. Patrick, the Apostle of Ireland, kicked off at Lincoln Park and finished in Journal Square
The parade also honored other people of Irish heritage in the community, including Police Officer Lt. Robert Kearns, Firefighter Kevin Hennessey, Irishman of the Year Dr. John R. McGee, Irishwoman of the Year Meg Sweeney, EMT Devin McCabe, Educator Kevin Reed, Honorary Irishwoman of the Year Sarah O’Callaghan, Honorary Irishman of the Year Randy Riotto Sr., and Miss Colleen, Shannon Dwyer.
Among the dignitaries that took part were Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop, County Executive Tom DeGise, state Senator Sandra Cunningham, Assembly members Nicholas Chiaravalloti and Angela McKnight, former Gov. Jim McGreevey and former Jersey City Mayor Jerramiah Healy.
Al Sullivan may be reached at asullivan@hudsonreporter.com.