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Monroe resident Sean Evans had an ambitious mission for his Eagle Scout project that began more than a decade ago: honoring local soldiers who gave their lives in service.
In 2013, Evans earned his Eagle Scout rank by spearheading the creation of a monument dedicated to Monroe’s fallen heroes. Beginning the project as a high school freshman, Evans was determined to fill a void he noticed—no local memorial honored soldiers killed in action.
With the support of his parents, Irene and William, Troop 60, the Veterans Commission, the Township and various donors, Evans completed the core of the monument—featuring the iconic battlefield cross of rifle, boots, and helmet—before graduating high school. Located in Veterans Park off Avenue K, the tribute stood incomplete without one key element: a stone engraved with the names of the fallen.
Now, 12 years later, the stone has been added—just in time to serve as the centerpiece of Monroe’s Memorial Day ceremony on May 26. Watch the unveiling ceremony here.
“It’s amazing to see the vision the Township and I had so many years ago come to fruition,” said Evans, now a U.S. Air Force Reserve public affairs officer, Marine Corps veteran, and Rutgers graduate student.
Mayor Dalina praised the accomplishment: “It is essential that we continually honor our brave troops who made the ultimate sacrifice, and this moving tribute is a great source of pride for our town.”
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