Thomas J. Vaughan, Jr., a resident of Ridgefield, NJ since 1968, passed away at 61 years old. Tom served as commander of the American Legion Post 221 from 1989-1990.

As a decorated Vietnam War veteran, Tommy was disappointed to find that there were no memorials in Ridgefield for the Korean and Vietnam veterans. Throughout his term as post commander and the years that followed he worked diligently to raise money for a Town of Ridgefield memorial. He headed many committees and organized fundraising activities from dinner dances to raffles. From all over town, many generous donations were received. To culminate his fundraising efforts, UNICO donated the land where the monuments stand today.

The memorials are dedicated to the men and women of Ridgefield who served their country in the Korean and Vietnam Wars. The monuments are located on the corner of Columbus Park off Shaler Boulevard. Tom would say the setting and erecting of the stones was one of his proudest and greatest days.

At his funeral mass, his brother John read an excerpt from Act 4, Scene 3 of Shakespeare's Henry V. It is the scene where King Henry stresses the importance of being a "Band of Brothers." In his closing comments, John stated that, "Tommy always looked out for the little guy down on his luck. Tom will be remembered as the Best Kid On The Block."

Thanks Brother!!