The Department of Military and Veterans Affairs partnered with the American Legion to host an event honoring New Jersey recipients of the 2006 National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) awards on Thursday, October 12, at the Lawrenceville American Legion Post 414, 100 Berwyn Place, Lawrenceville N.J.

      The eight recipients included community leaders, lawmakers and members of the New Jersey National Guard, both past and present.

      The awards recognized individuals who, by superior performance, acts of heroism or service of a meritorious nature, made a contribution to the goals of the Association, to the purpose and effectiveness of the National Guard…or the stability and security of the United States.

      Congressman Rush Holt, 12th District of New Jersey, received the Charles Dick Medal of Merit, which recognizes contributions to the National Guard by elected state and national legislative representatives.

      Three other community leaders received the Patrick Henry Award (the civilian counterpart to the NGAUS Distinguished Service Medal), which recognizes local officials and civic leaders who have distinguished themselves with outstanding and exceptional service to the Armed Forces of the United States.  They were State Assemblyman Jack Conners (District 7), Mayor Glenn D. Gilmore (Hamilton Township), and Eric S. Spevak (Managing Partner – Adinolfi & Spevak).

      In addition, four Garden State Guardsman received awards. Chief Master Sgt. Michael R. Francis (Air National Guard) received the Meritorious Service Award, which recognizes individuals for significant contributions to the United States Government, the Armed Forces, or the National Guard Association of the United States.  Three other Guardsman received the Meritorious Service Certificate, which recognizes individuals who have demonstrated outstanding performance and achievement.  They were retired Chief Warrant Officers Ken Langer and Jack Petrosilli (Army National Guard), and Staff Sgt. James J. Waller (Air National Guard).