The American Legion Post 118 of Secaucus gave out the Citizen, Firefighter and Police Officer of the Year awards on Oct. 29 during a luncheon held at the Bonefish Grill. The Legion recognized Mayor Michael Gonnelli as Fireman of the Year, Detective Sergeant Carlos Goyenechea as Police Officer of the Year, and brothers Brian and Bruce Rennie as Citizens of the Year.
Two hundred people came out in support of the award winners during the October winter snowstorm.
Recognizing leaders
“These are the men we should be looking up to, that our children should be looking up to,” said Kevin Swift, American Legion Finance Officer Adjutant. Swift has been a volunteer for the Legion for more than 10 years. “They were leaders in their fields during the course of the year.”
Swift said the American Legion honors individuals each year for their contributions to the community.
Brian and Bruce Rennie are local business owners and run the Plank Road Inn.
“These are the people that really change our lives on a daily basis.” – Ingrid Lagos
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Det. Sgt. Goyenechea has been on the force for 13 years. Goyenechea runs the DARE program and also rode in the Tour de Force 9/11 Memorial bike ride.
Mayor Gonnelli continues to serve as a volunteer firefighter, and has done so for the last 37 years. He was a fire chief for six of the years.
“These are the people that really change our lives on a daily basis,” said Ingrid Lagos. She said Goyenechea responded when she lost her son two years ago. She said he was “extremely sensitive” and “extremely professional.”
Showing community support
Many in attendance were happy to get together and spend time with fellow community members.
“It is nice to get together and support the local community,” said Dr. Anthony Just, son of former Mayor Anthony Just.
“It is a long standing tradition and keeps the community together,” said Captain Frank Prezioso of the Secaucus Fire Department.
“It keeps our community close,” said Gary Riebesell, a previous winner, volunteer firefighter, and Board of Education trustee.
The American Legion was chartered and incorporated by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans organization devoted to mutual helpfulness. It describes itself as the nation’s largest veterans service organization, committed to mentoring and sponsorship of youth programs in communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting strong national security, and encouraging continued devotion to fellow service members and veterans.
Swift said next year, Post 118 will consider honoring a woman for the first time in town history.
Adriana Rambay Fernández may be reached at afernandez@hudsonreporter.com.