On Tuesday, May 23rd, a ceremony was held on the Battleship New Jersey to honor local heroes through the dedication of 22 banners. The dedication coincides with the 80th anniversary celebration of the commissioning of the Battleship back on May 23rd, 1943.
Among those being honored with a banner was US Marine Lance Cpl. Jeremy Kane, son of Commissioner and Gold Star Mother Melinda Kane. Jeremy Kane was killed by a suicide bomber on January 23rd, 2010, while serving in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.
“Receiving this banner posthumously for my son Jeremy is an incredible way to his honor the sacrifices and service,” Commissioner Kane said. “I want to thank the Battleship for recognizing and honoring my son as well as other local veterans and their families.”
Fellow local Gold Star Mother Judy Tapper, mother of US Navy Petty Officer David M. Tapper, was also honored. David was killed on August 20th, 2003, in Afghanistan where he was serving as a Navy Seal.
Other heroes honored were a mix of Medal of Honor Awardees, those Killed in Action, and Prisoners of War/ Missing in Action.
“I am dedicated to improving the lives of the brave men and women who selflessly served our country through my work with the Office of Veterans Affairs and Gold Star Families,” Kane continued. “This banner serves as a reminder of why I love this work and why I will continue to be there for our veterans.”
The banners were installed along the Promenade leading to the pier which accesses the Battleship.