Street is now ‘Veterans Way’
By Gene Robbins, Managing Editor
Hillsborough dedicated the main roadway into the municipal complex as "Veterans Way" in a ceremony Friday.
The road separates the parking lot fronting on South Branch Road from the municipal complex. It appropriately passes in front of the township’s Garden of Honor, a cluster of monuments to those who died or were injured in battle in World War II and the Korean War, as well as Purple Heart recipients.
Mayor Doug Tomson told the gathering, distinguished by people wearing garrison caps, emblazoned jackets and red, white and blue accessories, "This road is for you."
"Veterans wrote a blank check and made it payable to the USA for up to their life," said Mayor Tomson. He said the road naming is "a reminder of what veterans have given up for us" and "further memorializes our gratitude and appreciation to our veterans."
Congressman Leonard Lance said the ceremony was "another opportunity to thank veterans for their magnificent service to our nation."
He said the nation has faced challenges to its veterans care system, particularly with the federal Veterans Administration. He noted the VA has a facility in Bernards Township and assured the gathering that lapses in care found in Phoenix "were not happening in Lyons," he said.
He said the world and the country look to the military when faced with the challenges across the globe.
"When the world is in need, it is the U.S. military that comes to the rescue," he said.
He acknowledged those currently serving, and their families.
"When an American serves in the military, his or her family also serves, in no small measure," he said.
The Rotary Club of Hillsborough and the Riverside Rod and Gun Club gave donations for the signs so that the project will be funded without tax dollars.

