U.S. Sens. Cory Booker and Robert Menendez (both D-N.J.) today announced the Senate passage of their bill to rename the Waldwick, New Jersey, post office the “Staff Sergeant Joseph D’Augustine Post Office Building,” honoring the legacy of Staff Sergeant Joseph D’Augustine — a United States Marine and Waldwick native who was killed in action in Afghanistan in 2012.

Staff Sergeant D’Augustine, a 2001 Waldwick High School graduate, was an explosive ordinance disposal technician assigned to the 8th Engineer Support Battalion of the 2nd Marine Logistics Group. He was killed in action in Afghanistan’s Helmand province, just two weeks away from completing his fourth tour of duty.

 

“The men and women of America’s armed forces make immense sacrifices, and Staff Sergeant Joseph D’Augustine made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country,” Sen. Booker said. “The Senate’s passage of legislation to rename Waldwick’s post office in his honor is a step forward in an effort to pay tribute to this American hero and ensure that his memory lives on.”

 

“Renaming the Waldwick Post Office in Marine Staff Sergeant Joseph D’Augustine’s honor is a fitting tribute to a local hero who made the ultimate sacrifice defending this nation and the freedoms we all enjoy in this country,” Sen Menendez said. “Our men and women in uniform deserve our gratitude for the tremendous sacrifices they make on and off the battlefield. Post office patrons will be reminded of Joseph D’Augustine’s courageous service, ensuring his lasting legacy for generations to come.”

 


On March 23, Rep. Scott Garrett (R-N.J.) introduced a House version of the bill that was cosponsored by the entire New Jersey delegation.