TOMS RIVER – A special connection between Toms River and Normandy, France, came to life during a recent visit to Town Hall.
Victor Lesieur, deputy director of a prominent D-Day museum in Normandy, and his wife, Manel, toured the Lomell Room, which honors Lt. Leonard G. “Bud” Lomell, the Toms River native and World War II hero credited with scaling the cliffs at Pointe du Hoc on June 6, 1944.
The couple was guided by J. Mark Mutter, former township clerk and historian, who led them through the room dedicated to Lomell’s legacy. Officials said the Lesieurs were visibly moved to see the tribute thousands of miles from the beaches of Normandy, where Lomell’s actions helped secure freedom for generations to come.
The visit underscored the lasting ties between the Jersey Shore and the people of France who continue to honor the legacy of the Allied soldiers.
