Thomas Conlon of Harrison, a member of the U.S. Submarine Veterans, Inc., (New Jersey North Base) has received the 2021 Joe Negri Award as the United States Submarine Veterans’, Inc. (USSVI),’s United States Submarine Veteran Of The Year for 2021 at a recent luncheon at the VFW Post in Morris Plains.
The award is considered to be the highest and most prestigious honor presented by the USSVI to a member. Negri was the primary founder of USSVI.
The award may only be bestowed once to any member. It reflects the personal individual efforts and participation of the recipient during the preceding years on a national level. The awardees have contributed the most to the advancement and embodiment of the USSVI creed and agenda. By his dedicated service and support to the USSVI organization and his fellow submarine veteran brothers, Conlon exemplifies the true meaning and spirt of the word “Shipmate,” organizers say.
Conlon joined USSVI in 1982 and was the founding Base Commander for the New Jersey North base. Over the last 39 years, he has served in many leadership roles at USSVI, including being its National Commander for four years.
As an active undersea warrior, Conlon, over 50 years ago, served on-board two submarines, the U.S.S. James K. Polk and the U.S.S. Francis Scott Key. He says he is justifiably proud of his accomplishments.
Organizers say he faithfully executed his duties under difficult circumstances and he represents the living historical memory of the nation’s submarine heritage.
Tom has lived in Harrison 60+ years, where he and his wife of 50 years, Regina (Gina) raised two children, Michael and Regina. He is also the grandfather of Briana, Tommy, Aidan and Sean.
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