Parade Route Grand Marshals Parade Highlights

Independence Day Parade Grand Marshals

Township to Honor Ed Giblin, Retired Police Chief,
John Gardner, Retired Fire Chief

Ed Giblin
Ed Giblin is being honored for his many years and tireless efforts in making the Montclair community a safe place to live. Ed joined the Montclair Police force in 1952 after serving in the US Army. Many promotions followed – to detective in 1958, sergeant in 1965, lieutenant in 1969, captain in 1971 and Police Chief in 1977. In all, Ed devoted 41 years of service to the community.

Ed holds Montclair close to his heart and says that serving Montclair has been a true honor for him. Now Montclair will honor Ed for his many years of dedicated service to our community

John Gardner, Sr.
John Gardner, Sr. served more than three years as a Air Force bomber pilot during WWII. He went on to serve his country in the reserves for another 28 years before retiring as a lieutenant colonel. John joined the Montclair Fire Department in 1945. He nearly lost his life battling a blaze at Grunnings ice cream parlor, suffering severe smoke inhalation. John went on to serve the Montclair Fire Department for another 44 years and retired as Fire Chief in 1990.

Over the years, John was active in many organizations such as the Montclair Knights of Columbus, Red Cross, Catholic Youth Organization, Kiwanis Lions and the Rotary Club. He remains active in the Retired Officers Association and the State Fire chiefs Association.

Montclair is proud to honor John for his tremendous work for the Township and selfless dedication to our country and our community.