New Jersey resident and WWII Army Ranger Veteran, John Wardell was featured today at the prestigious Congressional Gold Medal Ceremony for the United States Army Rangers of World War II held in the U.S. Capitol. 

           One of only two surviving Army Ranger veterans to attend the ceremony, PFC Wardell joined the Rangers in 1944, fought in several battles and is a Purple Heart recipient.  John, who lives in Point Pleasant, will turn 100 next month.

           In 2022, Rep. Smith supported the legislation, S 1872, (PL 117-132) which mandated the award on behalf of Congress for the United States Army Rangers Veterans in recognition of their dedicated service during WW II.  

           Renee Lomell, the daughter of Toms River war hero Second Lieutenant Leonard “Bud” Lomell also attended the ceremony on behalf of her family and deceased dad.  As a First Sergeant, 2LT Lomell, landed at Pointe du Hoc, Normandy, on D-Day, and successfully scaled the cliffs, despite a withering German defensive barrage. First Sergeant Lomell subsequently received a battlefield promotion to Second Lieutenant, and was awarded some of the Army’s highest honors, including the Distinguished Service Cross, Purple Heart, and Silver Star. 

           “The United States is especially indebted to the service, bravery and heroism of those who defended freedom in World War II,” saidCongressman Chirs Smith who represents both Wardell and the Clarke family in Congress and who also served as chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee.