Continuing with an annual tradition that began in March of 2018, the American Red Cross New Jersey Region kicked off Red Cross Month onboard the Battleship New Jersey in Camden on March 1, 2026.

Under a sunny sky on a chilly Sunday morning, everyone gathered to celebrate and honor the work of Red Cross volunteers, partners and supporters. Since the Red Cross is rooted in serving military members and veterans, the Battleship New Jersey served as a special backdrop for this event.

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To start, the Red Cross flag was raised up the mast of the Battleship New Jersey by Red Cross volunteers Frank Ott and Eric Shuler, where it will fly throughout the month of March. The day also featured a fireboat display by the Philadelphia Marine 1 Fireboat, the U.S. Naval Sea Cadets Honor Guard, singing of the National Anthem by Meddie Tuckey, a side-gun salute, and tours of the historic battleship.

In addition to Red Cross volunteers, the event was attended by key figures including guest speakers City of Camden Council President Angel Fuentes, Councilwoman Jannette Ramos, and USS New Jersey Events Director Denise Haldun. Members of the City of Camden Fire Department also joined the celebration.

On her first day as Red Cross New Jersey Regional Executive, Wendy Vara expressed appreciation to Red Cross volunteers and highlighted the countless ways they help in their communities and around the country.

^{_{“Our mission wouldn’t be possible without our volunteers. During this annual Red Cross Month celebration, we honor their commitment to support individuals and families in need.”}}

Councilman Fuentes spoke about the importance of the Red Cross work around the state and in the City of Camden, noting the impact on fire safety with free smoke alarms being installed in vulnerable New Jersey communities, including more than 4,000 alarms installed in Camden homes.

He said, “Every day, Red Cross volunteers and staff help to connect with families who have lost everything to a home fire or other disaster, often in the City of Camden. This month, I ask that everyone help to support the American Red Cross.”

Throughout March, notable landmarks and buildings will be lit red in celebration of The American Red Cross, our volunteers, blood donors and supporters, including the Battleship New Jersey.

HELP CAN’T WAIT

Visit our Red Cross Month page to see activities happening in New Jersey this month! Join us and make a financial donation, give blood or platelets, become a volunteer or take a class in lifesaving skills, such as first aid, CPR and how to use an AED. On March 25, you can also join our annual Red Cross Giving Day campaign by donating at redcross.org/givingday to help and support people affected by disasters big and small.