Camden County Veterans Give Voice to History in Freedom Chronicles
For Immediate Release: May 22, 2009
Contacts: KEN SHUTTLEWORTH

James W. McNamee Sr., of Gloucester City, is one of many Camden County veterans with magnificent stories to tell that document the nation’s leadership in the battle for freedom throughout the world.

Known as “Big Jim,” McNamee tells about his participation in the Normandy invasion and his march across Northern France and through Central Europe as a technical sergeant in the U.S. Army during World War Two.

His story is the first in a series of 15-minute videos titled Camden County Freedom Chronicles, sponsored by the Board of Freeholders through the Office of Veterans Affairs. It can be viewed on the home page of www.camdencounty.com

“Big Jim’s story is the first in the Freedom Chronicles series that will be posted on the county’s website,” explained Freeholder Director Louis Cappelli Jr., who announced the new program during the county’s Memorial Day observance at Harleigh Cemetery. Two years ago, the freeholders designated a portion of the cemetery on the banks of the Cooper River in Camden as the official site of the Camden County Veterans Cemetery.

Cappelli said McNamee earned the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart, among several other medals, for his service during a 32-month period of service in the Army, starting on Feb. 23, 1943.

Cappelli said the freeholders wanted to introduce Camden County Freedom Chronicles during the Memorial Day weekend to allow anyone with access to the county website to pause and reflect on the service of thousands of Camden County men and women over the years.

“It’s only 15 minutes and it’s a wonderful way to appreciate the true meaning of Memorial Day,” Cappelli said. He also invited other veterans and their families to contact his office (856 225 5451) with suggestions and recommendations for future Freedom Chronicle episodes.

The freeholder director noted that the interviewer, Norm Sooy of Somerdale, is a hero in his own right, having served with distinction in combat as a Marine in Vietnam. Sooy is director of the county’s office of veteran affairs.

In addition to introducing Camden County Freedom Chronicles, there was a ceremonial bell-ringing in honor of men and women who served in each of the wars in which Americans participated.

Back to Main Press Releases Page

>> Top of Page <<