Dear Editor:
I would like to pay tribute to the former Mayor and Memorial Day committee founding member James Hannon who recently passed away.
I came to know Jim through the many political campaigns in the Town of Guttenberg. Even though we were on opposite sides politically, we joined together in a common resolve to honor our veterans and support patriotism in Hudson County.
Since that time Jim has been an indispensible part of our committee. Being a veteran of the Korean War, he was the liaison between our group and the Korean American Groups in the area.
Tragedy struck the Hannon family when in 2001, his nephew firefighter was killed in the World Center terror attack. Through-out the stress and chaos Jim never wavered in his support of our country, and then started to include police, firefighters, and emergency personnel in his concerns.
Many a Guttenberg Memorial Day event included excellent participation from the county’s various fire depts., police and other emergency personnel. In addition I could always count on Jim to obtain a flag flown over our Nations capitol from our local congressional delegation. Presentation of the flag to the town was always a highlight of our Memorial Day ceremonies.
While visiting him in the hospital before Memorial Day, he indicated he might not make it, and he was ready to meet God at any time. He was at total peace, and I found him to be one of the bravest people I ever knew facing such a serious situation.
Jim will be sorely missed by the committee, Town of Guttenberg, his lovely wife Pat, his five sons and many grandchildren, including one recently returning from service in Iraq.
Jim, from the bottom of my heart, I, along with many others from our committee and the Town of Guttenberg, salute you, and thank you for your service to our town, God and country.
Respectfully yours,
Lawrence Giancola
Chairman Guttenberg Memorial Day Committee