Manchester Township has long had the privilege of honoring its veteran population by way of lasting tributes. Today, Manchester Township, by way of the Mayor’s Veterans Committee, in conjunction with Manchester Township High School, dedicated the first Hometown Hero Banners at Manchester Township High School (MTHS). The banners, which now adorn the entrance to MTHS, honor our Hometown Heroes who are Veterans and graduates of Manchester Township High School.
Manchester's school district, township, and community gathered together at MTHS around family and friends to honor the lives and legacies of five extraordinary individuals who now have banners dedicated to their legacy at Manchester Township High School: Cpl. Nicholas Ott, Sgt. Ronald Kubik, Private First Class Matthew Zegan, Sgt. Joseph Pushkal, and Mr. Julius Bee. These brave men not only served our nation with courage and distinction, but they also share a meaningful connection to our Manchester Township High School community.
Cpl. Nicholas Ott and Sgt. Ronald Kubik were both members of the Class of 2006, Nick served in the United States Marine Corps, and Ronald served in the U.S. Army Rangers. Sgt. Joseph Pushkal, Class of 1994, and Pfc. Matthew Zegan, Class of 1991, each served in the United States Army with honor. Mr. Julius Bee, affectionately known as "Mr. B," served in the United States Air Force and dedicated over 51 years of service to our school district, leaving an indelible mark on generations of students and staff.
(Manchester Township High School JROTC presents flowers to the families of the Hometown Heroes)
"Manchester Township cherishes the important tradition of remembrance and respect," says Superintendent Diane Pedroza during her address. "These banners are public and permanent, and a way we honor, remember, and never forget," shared Mayor Hankins. "We honor the fallen not just in our words but in the ways we train, honor, and serve," shared First Sgt. Luis Martinez, JB-MDL representing NJ Department of Military and Veteran Affairs. Each banner displays the photo of a veteran, as well as their name, their rank, their branch of service, and the years they served.
Thank you to all who made today a special event for all. As Mr. Dennis Adams, Principal of Manchester Township High School, shared, "Once a Hawk, always a Hawk!"
Any interested veterans or families of veterans who are graduates of Manchester Township High School and interested in Manchester's Hometown Hero banner program should contact Tracey Lynch at 732-657-8121, x5102. Each Veteran to be honored must be or have been a Manchester-Whiting resident who served in ANY military component, including Coast Guard, National Guard, and Merchant Marine, who is currently serving or was Honorably Discharged.
