Commissioners honor Hunterdon County resident for his support of veterans and remarkable donation to the historical society
FLEMINGTON BOROUGH, NJ (Hunterdon County) – The Hunterdon County Board of Commissioners recognized Thomas Daniel, a Flemington Borough resident, for his unwavering support of Hunterdon County veterans and his remarkable donation of the “Patriot Jacket” to the Hunterdon County Historical Society (HCHS).
Daniel was honored with a proclamation during the February 4th board meeting in recognition of his donation to the Historical Society and his military service.
Commissioner Director John Lanza shared, “Mr. Daniel has demonstrated exceptional dedication to supporting our Hunterdon County veterans, and we are grateful to him for the generous gift of the ‘Patriot Jacket.’ This donation will serve as a lasting tribute to the men and women who have served our nation, ensuring their stories of courage and commitment are preserved for future generations.”
The County Historical Society is in the process of converting the Doric House, a historic site located on Flemington’s Main Street, into a museum that will feature the Patriot Jacket, along with accompanying pieces – a bow tie and hat – as the centerpieces of a veteran exhibition set for the spring of 2025.
The jacket was originally white before the first of three artists were hired to paint American icons on the fabric, which has since been sealed to preserve the paintings. On the back, the Statue of Liberty was painted first, followed by the American flag, the Capitol building in Washington D.C., American eagles on the lapels, and American soldiers in historic uniforms. Additionally, there is a collection of signatures scattered on the jacket from former elected officials, including President Barack Obama, Congressman Leonard Lance, Governor Chris Christie, and former Flemington Mayor Robert Hauck.
Daniel, a veteran who enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1972, worked as a truck service and maintenance officer in the 78th Transportation Company, assigned to Germany. He earned the National Defense Service Medal and other decorations for his marksmanship and grenade expertise. With the assistance of attorneys through Legal Services of Northwest Jersey, Flemington office, Daniel donated the Patriot Jacket and accompanying items to the HCHS in November 2024.
“The ‘Patriot Jacket’ is a unique and significant artifact that symbolizes the bravery and sacrifice of Hunterdon County veterans, and this donation to the Historical Preservation Society will allow an important piece of history to be showcased, providing a meaningful educational resource for the community,” Lanza said.
