Barnegat WWII Veteran Gets Visit From Police, Author

BARNEGAT, NJ — Barnegat police and a Boston police officer/author paid a visit to a local World War II Marine Corps veteran, as a way of furthering the police department's community policing initative.

Det. Robert Armstrong, Det. Stephen Russoniello and Boston Police Officer Andrew Biggio recently visited Walter Augustyniak, a Barnegat resident and distinguished veteran.

Biggio, also a Marine, is the author of "The Rifle," which chronicles the wartime experiences of World War II veterans, narrated through an M1 Garand rifle.

"His journey has taken him across the nation, where he has had the privilege of engaging with these veterans, capturing their stories, and obtaining their signatures on the aforementioned rifle," Barnegat police said.

This past Sunday, Augustyniak became the 321st veteran to sign the rifle and share his tales from his military service.

"In attendance to pay tribute to this remarkable occasion were esteemed members of our agency, the VFW Post 10092, Marine Brian Johnston, and Mr. Augustyniak's cherished family," police said. "The gathering served as a heartfelt tribute as Mr. Augustyniak nears his 99th birthday."

You can find more information about Biaggio's book here.

"We extend our sincere gratitude to Mr. Augustyniak for his unwavering commitment and service," police said. "Semper Fi"

Check out photos of Augustnyiak below.