Hillsborough Township was honored by the New Jersey State Governor’s Department of Veteran’s Affairs for its commitment to Veterans and Veteran causes.
The New Jersey Governor’s “We Value Our Veterans” Award gives municipalities the opportunity to value and honor the sacrifices, patriotism, and bravery displayed by those who served in the military. The award was presented by Gov. Phil Murphy at the Vietnam War Memorial in Holmdel, Monmouth County, on Nov. 11, according to a press release through the township on Nov. 16.
Towns are awarded points for specific initiatives including providing veteran-only parking,
recognizing veteran-owned businesses, honoring veterans on Memorial Day, Veteran’s Day,
and other holidays, and volunteerism at veteran-related events.
Hillsborough completed the requisite requirements for its many veteran-related initiatives and was one of 13 New Jersey municipalities to receive this prestigious honor, according to the press release.
“We are always honored to support and recognize our veterans,” Hillsborough Township Mayor Shawn Lipani said. “We dedicate this award to all of Hillsborough’s veterans,
past and present and look forward to our continued support in the future.”
In attendance to receive the award were Lipani, Deputy Mayor Frank DelCore, Director of Parks & Recreation and Social Services Bob Wagner, Hillsborough Township Police Officers and military veterans Richard Tichenor and Christopher Kennedy, and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) No. 8371 Post Commander Mike Schraufnagel.
The New Jersey Governor’s “We Value Our Veterans” Award gives municipalities, businesses, or academic institutions the opportunity to value and honor the men and women who have worn the military uniform. This award provides an additional avenue to honor New Jerseyans who have answered the call to arms in defense of American Values.
Military service represents an important part of New Jersey’s heritage, and receiving the award serves as a conspicuous representation of support for Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen, according to the press release.