Sergeant Basilone received the Congressional Medal of Honor for his gallant action during the Battle of Guadalcanal in 1942 and the Navy Cross posthumously for more heroism in the Battle of Iwo Jima where he was killed in 1945..

The parade grows in size and popularity every year. Over 150 units marched along with the Quantico Marine Band, and 20 other military and high school bands before 1000s of spectators, many of whom came from different parts of the country to attend this annual event..

The 15th John Basilone Commemorative Concert will be Saturday, September 25th at 8:00 PM at Raritan Valley Community College..

Preceding the Parade on Sunday, a memorial Mass will be celebrated at St. Ann Church at 9:00 AM. The John Basilone Museum at the Raritan Public Library will open to visitors at 11:00 AM.