Jefferson Man Honored for American Legion Service

Harold Liberatore was honored at Wednesday’s Jefferson Township council meeting for his service as Department of New Jersey Commander of the American Legion.

The 26-year Jefferson resident received a proclamation in honor of his service as a community leader, including commander of Lincoln Park Post 279, Commander of Morris County, Vice Commander for the Department of New Jersey, Morris County Commander’s Project Chairman and Morris County American Legion Baseball Chairman.

“I am truly honored to receive this,” Liberatore said. “I’ve received a lot of honors and awards but this is the top of the list. This comes from my town where I’ve lived for 26 years. I’ll cherish this for the rest of my life.”

Liberatore is currently working to raise $100,000 for a courtyard enhancement at the Lyons campus of the VA New Jersey Health Care System. The courtyard will encompass reflective areas, seating, gardens, lawns, paths and recreational areas. According to Liberatore, the courtyard will create a secure environment for veterans receiving care under the VA’s mental health program.

Experts believe that post-traumatic stress disorder occurs in 11-20% of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans, 10% of Desert Storm veterans and about 30% of Vietnam veterans. 

"This project will help to ease the pain of our servicemen and women suffering from mental health disease who have served to protect our freedom and way of life," Liberatore said.

Donations may be made by check made payable to The American Legion Department of New Jersey and mailed to The American Legion, Department of New Jersey, 135 West Hanover Street, Trenton, NJ 08618.