NEW JERSEY – The New Jersey Veterans of Foreign Wars has named Assemblywoman Aura Dunn its Legislator of the Year, recognizing her efforts to support veterans and military families across the state.
Dunn, R-Morris, received the award during the organization’s annual convention in Wildwood on May 28.
“As a lawmaker, I have strived to always be worthy of the great sacrifice and commitment of our veterans. This award from the VFW confirms that my work to better the lives of veterans in New Jersey is making a difference to our heroes, which is the highest compliment I could receive,” Dunn said. “While we remember the U.S. service members who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms this Memorial Day, I am reminded of how important it is to continue using my position in Trenton to help veterans and their families receive all the resources they have earned and deserve.”
Dunn, who has served in the New Jersey General Assembly since 2019, has sponsored legislation aimed at making New Jersey more military-friendly, including the proposed “Welcome Home Veterans Act,” which seeks to improve veterans’ access to benefits and services.
She has also introduced legislation focused on expanding treatment options for post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injuries, while supporting workforce development, educational opportunities and housing assistance for veterans and service members.
The lawmaker has also advocated for military-related initiatives in Morris County and across the state. Last year, she was a vocal supporter of efforts to protect and strengthen Picatinny Arsenal, the U.S. military’s primary center for the development and deployment of weapons and ammunition systems.
Dunn also hosted an event connecting veterans with resources available through the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and the County College of Morris. More recently, she participated in an “Our Community Salutes” ceremony honoring high school seniors preparing to enter military service after graduation.
“I will always stand with veterans,” Dunn said. “I am the daughter of a Vietnam veteran who fought at Khe Sanh and the mother of a United States Merchant Marine Academy midshipman. My father’s stories instilled in me a lifelong appreciation for those who wear the uniform. Now, it’s my son’s turn, and I can confirm that this next generation is stepping forward with the same sense of duty. All veterans deserve our gratitude and support.”
In addition to her legislative duties, Dunn serves on the New Jersey Military Skills Council and is a board member of the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans Memorial Foundation.
