New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation Gala, Salute to Patriotism, Honors NJ Senate President, Steve Sweeney

Nearly 220 people, including statewide community leaders John Lloyd, Hackensack Meridian President & CEO and Utilities and Transportation Contractors Association CEO, Bob Briant Jr., gathered for the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation Salute to Patriotism Gala on October 27 at Eagle Oaks Golf and Country Club in Farmingdale, NJ. This year’s gala honoree was New Jersey Senate President Steve Sweeney, recognized from the podium by speakers throughout the evening for his unwavering, proactive advocacy on behalf of veterans.

Sweeney’s record of support of veterans and their families was spotlighted by Jack Ford, Emmy and Peabody award-winning broadcast journalist and native son of New Jersey. Ford reprised his tradition of holding an ‘interview’ with the gala’s honoree and opened the conversation by crediting Sweeney for securing a $250,000 grant from the State of New Jersey to improve the Vietnam Era Museum & Education Center at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial. When Ford asked about the effort it took to get the grant approved, Sweeney replied,

“It really wasn’t hard, Jack. All our New Jersey legislators really understand and appreciate the contributions and sacrifices of our service men and women. I mean, don’t get me wrong,” Sweeney continued with a chuckle, “We fight like hell at times, but when it comes to our veterans, party doesn’t matter. We came together -- even the Governor who was very supportive -- and made it happen.”

Ford concluded the interview by reading a letter addressed to the Foundation and everyone in the room, from Corey A. Booker, U.S. Senator for New Jersey. Booker paid tribute to the veterans and thanked them and their families for their service to their country.

Monmouth County Freeholder, John Curley, also took the stage, presenting a proclamation to Foundation Chairman Clark Martin and Foundation Executive Director, Bill Linderman, that declared October 27th, New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation Day.

The successful event enjoyed significant sponsorship support from: Saker Shoprites, UTCA, Hackensack Meridian Health, New York Shipping Association, NJM Insurance, Pride Ride NJ, Joseph and Teresa Rosato Charitable Trust and Solutions Architecture. A full list of sponsors is available on the Foundation’s website: www.njvvmf.org