SHARE

Glen Rock Vet, 90, Only NJ Honoree At Washington, D.C. Salute

GLEN ROCK, N.J. — A 90-year-old Glen Rock veteran will receive first-class treatment on Saturday, Nov. 7, when he flies to Washington, D.C. to be honored for his military service.

Glen Rock resident Frank Brantigan rides through the Fourth of July parade in 2015.

Glen Rock resident Frank Brantigan rides through the Fourth of July parade in 2015.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Pat Kane
Glen Rock resident Frank Brantigan during his Army days in World War II.

Glen Rock resident Frank Brantigan during his Army days in World War II.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Pat Kane

Frank Brantigan, who's lived in town since 1954, will be part of the Hudson Valley Honor Flight, traveling from New York to Washington and back.

Brantigan served in the Army during World War II from 1944 to 1945. He will be the only New Jersey resident among the 66 honorees.

The veterans will visit the World War II Memorial, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Iwo Jima Memorial.

"I will remember my time spent in Germany and feel so grateful I have had the good fortunate to survive then and to have celebrated my 90th birthday," he said. "I am so thankful to Honor Flight for recognizing the sacrifices of veterans and honoring us with the experience of visiting our memorial.”

A member of St. Catharine R.C. Church in Glen Rock, Brantigan worked as a delivery driver before retiring. In his younger days he enjoyed woodworking, repair jobs and traveling, his daughter, Pat Kane, said.

Kane's son, Frank, will accompany his grandfather on the trip. On the way back, the veterans will receive thank you cards from students.

Kane said it will be a great day for the family.

"I'm almost 65 years old and I feel so blessed that i've been able to have my dad for so long," she told Daily Voice. "When I think about all the men and women who have died in the various wars, but especially World War II, I recognize how lucky I am that my dad was able to survive the experience and able to enjoy the accolades that are due him."

to follow Daily Voice Fair Lawn-Glen Rock and receive free news updates.

SCROLL TO NEXT ARTICLE