U.S. Marine veteran Pasquale Turello displays medal, which he accepted at his home from Commissioner Steven Rogers and guests. From l., Turello (seated) with Rogers, Berkeley Mayor Carmen F. Amato, Berkeley Council President James J. Burns, and U.S. Marine Cpl. Carlos M. Hernandez.
NUTLEY –
A formerly longtime Nutley resident got a surprise visit recently from township representatives who came bearing a special gift … unrelated to the upcoming holiday season, however.
Pasquale Turello, 96, a World War II Marine veteran, was presented with Nutley’s Distinguished Service Award in recognition of his service to his country.
Township Public Affairs Commissioner Steven Rogers traveled to Berkeley Township in Ocean County to see the veteran, who had moved there in order for his family to care for him.
“He was unable to attend our Veterans’ Day ceremony when we presented 21 Nutley World War II veterans with medals,” Rogers explained. “Therefore, I decided to bring the medal to him.”
Turello, a private, served in the South Pacific during his tour with the U.S. Marines. He received several combat decorations from the military.
Rogers said he contacted Berkeley Mayor Carmen Amato who, together with Berkeley Council President James Burns, agreed to join him for a small military ceremony in Turello’s home with family and friends also there.
“To say the least, it was an emotional day for all of us. On behalf of this 96-year-old Marine and his wife, thank you Nutley for remembering his sacrifice for our nation,” Rogers said.
