Clark Remembers Tragic Reservoir Incident 50 Years Later

CLARK, NJ — As Sunday marks the 50th anniversary of a tragic event in Clark's history, the Township recognized the significance of the day in a Facebook post.

Clark Township wrote that on Feb. 6, 1972, cries came from the Clark reservoir where two skaters had fallen through the ice. William B. Harrison, who was walking with his children at the time, heard the screams and risked his own life to rescue the teenagers.

According to the post, Harrison initially pulled out Brian Subliskey, a 15-year-old, from the waterway. While attempting to pull the second boy — Edward Milewski — who was also 15, from the reservoir, both succumbed to the freezing water and drowned.

On April 17, 1972 the Clark Town Council adopted a resolution, which recognized Harrison's sacrifice and heroic efforts. The Council unanimously agreed to name the Recreation room, that was under construction at the time, in honor of Harrison.

“I think it's important to recognize this man who tragically ended his life while trying to save others,” Mayor Sal Bonaccorso said in the post.

“I think this event still says a lot about the spirit of our community and it is important history I think our newest neighbors should know. It isn't just a name on the wall of our Recreation Center, there's remembrance and honor there too."

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