The Manchester Township Veterans Committee was proud to partner with the Manchester Township, NJ School District to dedicate five Hometown Hero banners honoring service members who graduated from or had an indelible connection to Manchester Township High School.
Honored were: Sgt. Ronald A. Kubik, US Army Ranger (2007-2010); Cpl. Nicholas S. Ott, US Marine Corps (2007-2011); Sgt. Joseph G. Pushkal, US Army (2001-2008); PFC Matthew Zegan, US Army (1993-1994); and TSGT Julius C. Bee, US Air Force, and beloved school bus driver.
Family, friends, community members, and distinguished guests gathered with Mayor Joseph Hankins, Superintendent of Schools Diane Pedroza, Principal Dennis Adams and Veterans Committee members to publicly present the banners which line the entrance to the high school. Roger P. Grenier, Veterans Committee chairman, led the proceedings, and noted that these five banners are in addition to the 21 displayed at the Municipal Complex.
“As your Mayor, I take great pride in events like this moment that reminds us of the strength, sacrifice, and spirit that define our community,” said Mayor Hankins. “These banners are public and permanent ways for us to say, we remember, we honor, and will never forget.”
“It is a privilege that I stand before you today. On behalf of the Manchester Township School District, we gather to honor the lives and legacies of five extraordinary individuals,” said Superintendent of Schools Pedroza. “These brave men not only served our nation with courage and distinction, but they also shared a meaningful connection to our Manchester Township High School community.
Participating in this moving ceremony were the Manchester Township High School ROTC Color Guard, High School Concert Choir, Athens Licitra performing TAPS, and Rev. David Rittinger Sr., Senior Pastor Whiting Bible Church. Additionally, First Sergeant Luis Martinez, representing the NJ Department of Military and Veteran Affairs, addressed the audience.
Anyone interested in learning more about the Hometown Heroes banner program may visit the Veterans Advisory Committee website at: https://manchestertwp.com/…/veterans-advisory-committee/