Branchburg Officer Honored As Part Of First Responders Hometown Heroes Program

BRANCHBURG, NJ —A new districtwide recognition program for first responders is underway in New Jersey's 7th Congressional District, with Branchburg Township Police Officer Joanna Coppola named as the first 2026 honoree.

Congressman Tom Kean Jr. announced the launch of his First Responders Hometown Heroes initiative, an annual program recognizing first responders serving communities across NJ-07.

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According to the announcement, the initiative has expanded this year beyond law enforcement to include firefighters and EMS personnel for the first time.

"Every day, the brave men and women who serve as police officers, firefighters, and EMS personnel put themselves in harm's way for their neighbors, often without any recognition. The First Responders Hometown Heroes program is our way of changing that," said Kean. "I am excited to expand the initiative this year to honor individuals in all three branches of emergency response, because all of these first responders deserve to be celebrated by their communities."

Kean invited nominations from police, fire and EMS departments throughout the district.

Each Hometown Hero was selected by that department's leadership for going above and beyond in the line of duty, and honorees will be recognized throughout the year for their dedication and service.

To open the 2026 initiative, Kean recognized Coppola of the Branchburg Township Police Department.

"Since joining the department, Officer Coppola has distinguished herself through her professionalism, integrity, and commitment to serving the community she grew up in. In 2025, she led the department in total arrests, as well as total DWI arrests, earning herself the 'Rising Star Award' at the New Jersey Women in Law Enforcement Annual Conference and recognition from Mothers Against Drunk Driving," said Kean.

"Officer Coppola is an exceptional member of the department and embodies all the qualities of a Hometown Hero. Thank you, Officer Coppola, for your unwavering dedication and service to the Branchburg community!" said Kean.

Coppola and other honorees are expected to be recognized over the next several months as the initiative continues across the district.

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