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A Hero's Sacrifice,
Forever Remembered
The Cemelli Family established the PFC Salvatore P. Cemelli Memorial Foundation to honor their beloved brother, uncle, and friend, Salvatore P. Cemelli, who gave his life serving his country in the Vietnam War. Born in Hoboken and raised in Weehawken, Sal attended the Weehawken School District and was the second of seven children. He worked alongside his father in the family’s grocery business in Hoboken, embodying a deep commitment to family and community.
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The Cemellis, led by parents James and Rose, were proud Weehawken residents for over 55 years. Rose Cemelli, a Gold Star Mother, honored her son's memory by participating in Weehawken’s Memorial Day Parade every year until her passing in 2011.
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Dedicated to preserving Sal’s legacy, the foundation awards an annual college scholarship to a deserving Weehawken High School senior and supports other charitable initiatives. Through this work, Sal’s memory continues to inspire future generations in his hometown.
About the Foundation
Salvatore's Story
PRIVATE FIRST CLASS
B CO, 1st BN, 18 INF REG, 1 INF Div.​
Army Of the United States
14 August 1946 - 08 December 1966
PFC Salvatore P. Cemelli was the first fatality in Hudson County of the Vietnam War and the first of 3 from Weehawken. ​ He was a Rifleman in the 2nd Squad, 2nd Platoon, B CO, 1st BN, 18 INF REG, 1 INF Div.​ Sal was drafted in January 1966, arrived in Vietnam in June 1966 and was killed in action on December 8, 1966 – 11 months after receiving his draft notice.​ He was 20 years old when his squad was ambushed while on a mission in a small village in Vietnam on the morning of December 8, 1966. Sal, along with another soldier, was killed and several wounded.
Medals & Achievements
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Bronze Star
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Purple Heart
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National Defense Service Medal
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Vietnam Service Medal w/1 Bronze Service Star
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Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross w/Palm Unit Citation
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Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon w/Device (1960)
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Combat Infantryman Badge
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Sharpshooter Badge w/Auto Rifle Bar & Rifle Bar
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Marksman Badge w/Machine Gun Bar.
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In 2007, The Distinguished Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously by the County of Hudson, NJ where Sal was born & raised until his death.
Memorial Scholarship
Honoring Sacrifice, Empowering Futures
In memory of Salvatore P. Cemelli, a devoted soldier who gave his life in the Vietnam War, this $1,000 scholarship supports a Weehawken high school senior pursuing full-time college enrollment in the 2024-2025 academic year. The award will be presented during the Weehawken Memorial Day Ceremonies on May 27, 2024, at Hamilton Park, following the annual parade. Join us in celebrating this meaningful tradition, honoring Sal’s legacy while uplifting the next generation.
