PARAMUS, N.J. (Bergen County) — U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer presented New Jersey State Service Medals to 57 North Jersey veterans Wednesday during a ceremony honoring their military service.
“These are fifty-seven stories of courage, fifty-seven stories of sacrifice, and fifty-seven reasons we have the honor of living in the greatest country the world has ever known,” said Gottheimer, D-N.J. “There is no higher calling than raising your hand and volunteering to serve to protect our flag.”
Gottheimer also recognized the veterans for their willingness to serve and pledged to continue advocating for veterans in Congress.
“None of these veterans served for the glory or the paycheck — they served because they love our country and were willing to put everything on the line to protect their fellow Americans. I’ll keep fighting in Washington to make sure they get the resources, care, and recognition they deserve.”
Among the 57 veterans honored was Paramus resident Librado Lombana, who joined the Army at age 17 and served with the 82nd Brigade Engineers from 1962 to 1966.
During his service, Lombana helped build bridges and infrastructure across the Philippines, Guam, Vietnam and Korea, according to information provided by Gottheimer’s office.
Gottheimer represents New Jersey’s 5th Congressional District and has advocated for expanded access to benefits, mental health care and other resources for veterans, service members and their families.
