JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. – -- Service members from the Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst were recognized for building the Liberty Bridge at Newbury School in Howell, New Jersey, Sept. 27, 2019.
Petty Officer 1st Class Ernesto Cortez led a team to build this bridge for more than 400 students who attend the school.
Dr. James Quinn, Principal of Newbury School, mentioned that the “moat” surrounding the school’s soccer field could use a bridge so the students could access it without being covered in mud every day.
To begin, Cortez stepped up in creating a team of volunteers, soliciting donations from Home Depot to build the bridge for the school. The bridge took a total of three days to complete.
“It’s been an honor to invest in the future of our nation,” said Cortez.
Relationships with the community can be vital. The partnership between Joint Base MDL and Newbury School has been in development for more than 15 years. They’ve collaborated on events such as Veterans Day, Flag Day, and Read Across America that have fostered a foundation that continues to grow.
“It has been an honor and privilege to be able to cultivate such a great relationship,” Quinn said. “Today we celebrate the construction of the Liberty Bridge, the dedication of those involved and our ongoing partnerships with Joint Base MDL.”
Cortez was acknowledged with his name on the bridge and inducted into the Newbury School’s Wall of Honor. He is the first person, not directly affiliated with the school, to receive this award.