Army Veteran Who Helped Defend Pentagon After 9/11 Named Grand Marshal Of Sayreville Memorial Day Parade

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SAYREVILLE, NJ — Just days after the September 11 attacks, Dan Vardalis was deployed to help defend the Pentagon during one of the most difficult moments in modern American history.

Now, more than two decades later, the longtime Army veteran and commander of Sayreville VFW Post 4699 will lead another important tradition much closer to home after being named Grand Marshal of Sayreville’s 2026 Memorial Day Parade.

For Vardalis, Memorial Day is personal.

“It’s important to remember the people who gave everything for this country,” Vardalis said. “A lot of veterans carry those memories with them every day.”

Vardalis joined the U.S. Army in 1999 and went on to serve for 26 years. In addition to helping provide security at the Pentagon following 9/11, he also served in Guantanamo Bay and Afghanistan while working in military police and detainee operations before later helping train soldiers preparing for overseas deployment.

Today, he continues serving veterans and the community as commander of Sayreville VFW Post 4699 on Jernee Mill Road.

Under Vardalis’ leadership, the VFW has expanded its community outreach and become known for hosting family-friendly events that bring residents and veterans together throughout the year.

Its annual Memorial Day celebration following the borough parade has grown into one of the organization’s biggest community gatherings, drawing hundreds of residents for food, games, music, bounce houses, and activities for families.

“Most people usually go to a bar after a parade,” Vardalis said. “I wanted a place for families, so everyone could have a good time together while honoring veterans.”

This year’s Memorial Day celebration at the VFW will once again take place on Monday, May 25 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at 575 Jernee Mill Road in Sayreville.

The event will feature:

• Games
• Food
• Prizes
• Drink specials
• Face painting
• Bounce houses

The event will take place rain or shine.

The recognition as Grand Marshal also comes during a milestone year for the post. In January, Sayreville VFW Post 4699 celebrated its 80th anniversary with a successful gala attended by borough officials, veterans, families, and community supporters.

Vardalis said one of the VFW’s biggest goals is continuing to support veterans while keeping strong ties with the community.

“It’s camaraderie,” Vardalis said. “The VFW gives veterans a place to talk to people who understand you. It’s about honoring traditions, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to the community.”

Veterans interested in joining Sayreville VFW Post 4699 can do so by providing military discharge paperwork showing overseas service.

For questions about the Memorial Day celebration, residents can call 732-672-0401.

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