Clarkstown Rededicates Renovated Lieut. Jauss Monument In Congers

NEW CITY, NY — The newly renovated Lieut. Raymond B. Jauss monument at Congers Station Park was rededicated Friday.

Lt. Jauss, a Congers resident, was killed in action in World War I. The original cannon monument was dedicated by the VFW Post 2607 in 1936.

Town officials unveiled two new plaques, the renovated monument and pedestal.

"Today we rededicate this iconic Congers monument cognizant of the memory of sacrifice that it commemorates. July 15, 1918, exactly 105 years ago tomorrow, Lt. Raymond B. Jauss paid the ultimate sacrifice. May this newly restored monument that we rededicate stand the test of time," said Supervisor George Hoehmann. "Let it continue to be a place of gathering, as people pause to reflect on the true cost of freedom. Let it be a place of recommitment to high ideals and patriotic fervor. May it stand here for the next one hundred years or more and be a solemn reminder that a hero once walked these quiet, at the time, country streets; that a hero went off to war after marrying his childhood sweetheart and willingly gave his life in the cause of freedom."

Councilman Mike Graziano who represents Congers said, "As a lifelong Congers resident this memorial made an impression on me as well as the Congers community. It was rewarding to me to spearhead this project with Supervisor Hoehmann. The cannon monument and new plaques, in honor of Lt. Raymond B. Jauss, are a beautiful addition to the Congers Station Park and will remain a focal point for future generations. Please come visit."

President Woodrow Wilson posthumously awarded Lt. Raymond B. Jauss the Distinguished Service Cross, which is the Second Highest Award bestowed upon United States Military personnel.

The citation read, "The President of the United States of America, authorized by an Act of Congress, takes Pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (infantry) Raymond B. Jauss, United States Army for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with the 30th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Division, American Expeditionary Forces near Crezancy, France July 15, 1918. After all, means of liaison had failed, Lieutenant Jauss carried important messages to his observation posts. He was killed by shell fire visiting one of his observation stations near Crezancy."

The French Government also honored Jauss bestowing the Crux de Guere.