MANASQUAN — The Manasquan Veterans of Foreign Wars [VFW] Post 1838 hosted their annual Citizenship Awards Luncheon, recognizing many members of the Manasquan community, and other community members, for their dedication to their towns.
Held on Saturday, May 13 at The Salty Whale and Guesthouse, Post Commander Thomas Crowley welcomed guests and members with other members of the VFW.
Mr. Crowley explained there are two major parts of the awards, the essay contest winners and the citizen awards. The students in the essay contest are judged by a panel of retired military, many of whom have experience with teaching. The panel judged over 200 essays before selecting the top three.
Residents in Manasquan and nearby communities nominated their fellow citizens for the award. Mr. Crowley said that since this event has been going on for many years, individuals from the community already know to contact them to nominate these individuals. From there, the VFW members conduct their own investigation into the community involvement activities of nominees.
This year, the awards and recipients were: Patriots Pen Essay Contest “My Pledge to Veterans” — first place Rita Saracco from Spring Lake Heights School; second place Elaina Pamintuan from St. Catharine School; and third place Thomas Dwyer from St. Catharine School.
First Responder of the Year, Andrew Strucek, Brielle EMS; Firefighter of the Year, George Stork, Manasquan Engine Company No. 2; Dispatcher, Dawn Coppola, Belmar Police Department; Officer of the Year, John Mahoney, Belmar Police Department; Teacher of the Year, Andrea Trischitta, Manasquan Elementary School; Citizen of the Year, Mary Salerno, Manasquan Borough; Scout of the Year, Alex Schmeider, Manasquan Troop 59.
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