Westwood Council Honors Vietnam Vets, Swears in New Police Officer

Westwood officials honored nine Vietnam War veterans during the council meeting Tuesday as part of a salute to Veterans Day.

Mayor John Birkner Jr. recognized Alan Bonkowski, Fred Cooper, James Gines, Skip Kelley, William King, Harry Randall Jr., Nicholas Varastro and Paul Wahnowsky for their service. Three veterans were in attendance to accept their certificates of recognition at the meeting.

"This year it's our honor to recognize the service of residents who were in the armed forces during the Vietnam era and to show our appreciation as we begin to celebrate Veterans Day," Birkner said.

Resident Michael Fortunate was also sworn in as a patrol officer for the at the meeting. He had previously worked as a full-time department dispatcher for five years.

"I've had the pleasure of watching him grow and mature," Chief Frank Regino said, adding that Fortunate will be an asset to the department. "I take special pride in pinning the badge on him."