The Veterans Administration clinic in Toms River has been officially named the Leonard G. “Bud” Lomell VA Clinic during a recent ceremony. The event honored Leonard “Bud” Lomell, a World War II veteran known for his service with the Army Rangers during the D-Day invasion at Pointe Du Hoc. Lomell played a key role in disabling artillery that threatened Utah Beach, actions that earned him several military honors, including the Distinguished Service Cross and Silver Star.
After returning from the war, Lomell became Ocean County’s first Veterans Service Bureau director and worked to support local veterans until his death in 2011. His family, including his wife Charlotte and daughter Renee, attended the ceremony along with Army Ranger veteran John Wardell.
Congressman Chris Smith spoke at the event, highlighting his involvement in opening the original Veterans Affairs clinic in Brick in 1991 and introducing legislation earlier this year to rename the Toms River clinic after Lomell. The bill was signed into law by President Trump.
“It is only fitting that the new, state-of-the-art, Toms River VA Clinic bear the name of Bud Lomell – one of the bravest and most highly decorated combat soldiers of World War II. Bud’s name will serve as an inspiration to all who walk through its doors, as well as to the Ocean County community at large,” said Smith.
Renee Lomell also addressed attendees: “The VA takes care of veterans, that would please him to no end… all I can say is that this is meaningful because it is like a full circle.”
Other speakers included J. Mark Mutter, Toms River Town Historian and former mayor Admiral Mo Hill. After speeches concluded, guests viewed a picture showing what the building will look like with Lomell’s name displayed on its side.
Chris Smith currently represents New Jersey’s 4th district in Congress and has held this position since 1981 (https://www.jerseyshoreonline.com/toms-river/toms-river-va-clinic-officially-named-for-local-hero/). He was born in Rahway, New Jersey in 1953 and lives in Manchester Township. Smith graduated from The College of New Jersey with a Bachelor of Science degree.
The newly named clinic is located on Hooper Avenue in Toms River.
