Hunterdon County commissioner honors veterans, community leadership at Flemington celebration
RARITAN TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Hunterdon County) — Hunterdon County Commissioner Susan Soloway joined residents, families and staff at Independence Manor in Raritan Township on Veterans Day to recognize local veterans for their military service and honor a community member for his dedication to volunteerism and supporting others.
The Nov. 11 celebration included the presentation of Independence Manor’s Special Leadership and Community Service Award to Dominick Ragno, recognizing his commitment to volunteerism, supporting veterans and their families, and making a positive impact in the community.
“Veterans Day provides an important opportunity to recognize the extraordinary men and women who have served our nation and continue to strengthen our communities,” said Commissioner Soloway. “It was especially meaningful to celebrate Dominick Ragno, whose leadership, generosity, and dedication to helping others exemplify the spirit of service that defines our veterans.”
The ceremony also recognized several Independence Manor residents for their military service across multiple branches of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Among those honored were Navy pilot and Reserve officer Raymond Bernosky; Vietnam-era Navy veteran Joseph Hoffman; Army veterans Fernand Paillex and William Schroedel; Air Force pilot Noel Tursi; Army National Guard veteran William Tunison; and retired Navy officer Roberta Sopronyi, whose military career included service in naval hospitals and training future health care professionals.
“Each of these veterans has a remarkable story of courage, sacrifice, and dedication to our country,” Soloway continued. “Their contributions span generations and branches of our Armed Forces, and their experiences remind us of the tremendous debt of gratitude we owe to all who have worn our nation’s uniform.”
Soloway also thanked Independence Manor for organizing the Veterans Day celebration and providing an environment where veterans are recognized and appreciated. She expressed gratitude to the families, caregivers and staff members who continue to support veteran residents.
“Honoring our veterans is a responsibility that extends far beyond Veterans Day,” Soloway added. “We must continue to recognize their sacrifices, preserve their stories, and ensure they receive the respect, appreciation, and support they have earned through their service.”
The ceremony concluded with a tribute to all veterans, recognizing their service to the nation and the contributions they continue to make in communities throughout Hunterdon County.
