Assemblyman Guy Gregg

GREGG TO INTRODUCE LEGISLATION GRANTING VETERANS FREE ADMISSION INTO HIGH POINT STATE PARKJune 12, 2006
Assemblyman Guy Gregg/973-584-5422
Assembly Republican office/609-292-5339

GREGG TO INTRODUCE LEGISLATION GRANTING VETERANS FREE ADMISSION INTO HIGH POINT STATE PARK

Assemblyman Guy Gregg will be introducing legislation which permits veterans free entrance into High Point State Park any time of year.

"High Point State Park monument was built as a memorial to honor all war veterans," said Gregg, R-Sussex, Morris, and Hunterdon. "The monument is a lasting tribute to our veterans' bravery and sacrifice. It is only right that all veterans have free access to it."

The bill would allow all veterans free entrance into High Point State Park any time during the year and waives all fees for any veterans groups holding a veterans' related event in the park.

The introduction of the Gregg measure stems from an incident between the Division of Parks and Forestry and the American Legion Post 213. Historically, the Division of Parks and Forestry granted people free passes to participate in the American Legion Post 213 Memorial Day celebration in High Point State Park. However, this year, administration officials had originally indicated they would no longer provide free entrance passes for the event, scheduled for June 25.

"Thankfully, after lengthy discussions with my office, the Division took the necessary steps to rectify this situation," Gregg said. "However, to avoid any future conflicts, I have introduced legislation that would allow veterans to enter the park free of charge.

"High Point State Park is one of the few areas in New Jersey dedicated to those who have selflessly served our nation," Gregg added. "Allowing veterans to enter the park without paying a fee is a small gesture of our appreciation."

Gregg said it is an honor and a responsibility to take time to remember the soldiers who have so courageously served our country.

"The men and women of the armed forces risk their lives for our freedom," Gregg said. "This sacrifice is truly a debt we can never repay. It is only fitting that we take every opportunity to remember and honor our nation's heroes."

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