Mr. Local History Launches Project To Honor Veterans, Active Service Members In Bernards

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — The Mr. Local History Project, a New Jersey nonprofit dedicated to preserving community heritage, has announced the launch of Project Operation Bernards Township Armed Services Honor Roll — a major initiative to document and honor all men and women from Bernards Township who have served, or are currently serving, in the United States Armed Forces.

The project’s goal is to create a comprehensive, verified, and enduring record of every township resident who has served from the Revolutionary War to today’s global deployments. The effort will unite research, archival documentation, and community input to create a permanent tribute that complements existing memorials in Basking Ridge, Liberty Corner, and the Municipal Complex.

"This project is about remembering every name, every service branch, and every era," said Brooks Betz, founder of the Mr. Local History Project. "From the oak tree that shaded Revolutionary War soldiers to today’s active service members continuing to serve around the world, we want every generation from Bernards Township represented and honored."

The initiative draws inspiration from the township’s historical honor rolls — including the Basking Ridge Presbyterian Church Revolutionary War memorial, the WWII-era Liberty Corner and Basking Ridge community boards, and the Bernards Township Veterans Monument, but expands the scope to include all who have served, across all wars and conflicts, including those still in uniform today.

Each name will be researched and verified for inclusion in a new digital archive, which will later be integrated into an interactive online database and public display. The project will align with the national observance of America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, emphasizing the township’s enduring role in the nation’s military history.

"We’re not just collecting names," Betz added. "We’re preserving stories, connecting families, and ensuring that future generations understand the legacy of service that built this community."

Mr. Local History is seeking volunteers, local historians, and family contributors to help identify veterans and active-duty service members, provide service details, and share photos or historical records. The organization also welcomes donations and sponsorships to support research and design efforts.

Regarding the future, Mr. Local History will provide the completed data to Bernards Township officials in hopes of establishing a permanent memorial honoring our local heroes, ensuring that the township’s legacy of service is remembered for generations to come.

For more information, to volunteer, or to contribute veteran or active service member information, visit www.mrlocalhistory.org or email info@mrlocalhistory.org.

— Submitted by Mr. Local History