Burlington County Commissioner Director Dan O’Connell was recognized by the Burlington County Military Affairs Committee (BCMAC) for his leadership and steadfast support for the Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst and the county’s military personnel and families.
O’Connell was recently awarded BCMAC’s Edward Kelly Government Leadership Award during the organization’s holiday luncheon. The award is named after the late Burlington County Clerk and is presented to a government leader who has demonstrated exemplary service and support for BCMAC and its mission to enhance the lives of military personnel stationed at the Joint Base.
BCMAC was created by the Burlington County Commissioners in 1987 to serve as a liaison between the Joint Base’s commanders and county officials and community leaders from towns. The nonprofit organization seeks to promote mutual understanding about the Joint Base and its importance and to welcome and support military families who reside in the county.
“I am deeply honored to receive the recognition of an organization with so many dedicated members who volunteer their time and expertise in support of the Joint Base and our nation’s military. I would like to thank BCMAC’s officers and members for this honor and for all that they do,” said O’Connell, who is finishing his fourth year as a county commissioner and his first as the board’s director. “Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst is a critical part of our country’s defense and those who serve at the base are valued members of Burlington County’s communities. Our board is proud to partner with BCMAC to help secure and enhance the base and ensure Burlington County remains a welcoming destination for military families to live and work.”
In addition to O’Connell, attorney Steve Addezio received the John E. Dimon Award honoring BCMAC’s Trustee of the Year, and Dr. June Sernak was awarded the H. James Saxton award recognizing a BCMAC member who has consistently worked to advance the organization’s mission and goals through exemplary volunteer service.
Joint Base Commander Air Force Col. Wes Adams, received the Russ Regn Warrior of the Year Award, recognizing a member of the military who has gone above and beyond to cultivate relationships and promote interactions between the base and Burlington County’s communities.
The Corporate Member of the Year Award was presented to Burlington Auto in recognition of the company’s financial and volunteer support.
