Toms River VA Clinic to be Named After WWII Hero Leonard G. 'Bud' Lomell

This legislation officially designates the Department of Veterans Affairs community-based outpatient clinic in Toms River, New Jersey, as the "Leonard G. Bud Lomell VA Clinic." It's a move to formally recognize a specific individual for his significant contributions both during wartime and within the local community afterward.

More Than Just a Sign

So, who was Leonard 'Bud' Lomell? According to the bill's findings (Sec. 1), he wasn't just any resident. During World War II, specifically on D-Day, Second Lieutenant Lomell took heroic action at Pointe du Hoc, disabling key enemy artillery – actions that earned him the Distinguished Service Cross. The bill also notes his Purple Heart and Silver Star, alongside a post-war life deeply rooted in Toms River and Ocean County. He founded a local law firm, served as the first director of the Ocean County Veterans Service Bureau, and was active in various community groups. This naming aims to permanently attach his legacy to a place serving fellow veterans.

What Actually Changes?

Practically speaking, this bill changes the name on the building and on official documents (Sec. 2). Day-to-day operations and the services offered at the clinic aren't directly addressed or altered by this specific legislation. The main impact is symbolic – ensuring that veterans visiting the clinic, and the wider Toms River community, are reminded of Lomell's service and local contributions every time they see the name "Leonard G. Bud Lomell VA Clinic." It's a formal hat-tip from the government to a local figure.