July 21st, Verona recognized First Lieutenant Robert Wilson, an Air Force pilot who went missing during World War II. After eighty years, the Armed Forces believe they have found Lt. Wilson’s remains near his suspected crash site in Papua New Guinea. 

Mayor Christopher Tamburro, Deputy Mayor Jack McEvoy, and Councilwoman Christine McGrath presented Lt. Wilson’s first cousin, Bob — with a commemorative sign. The sign, commissioned by the Department of Public Works, is identical to the one displayed at the intersection of Harrison Street and S. Prospect St., near Lt. Wilson’s childhood home. 

Also present was Rob Caruso, a Verona resident that compiles information on Verona veterans who gave their lives in combat from the Civil War onwards. Ten years ago, Caruso petitioned the township to erect signs honoring the 44 Verona veterans that died in combat. Two copies of each sign were made: one stands near the veteran’s home, and the other was given to the veteran’s next of kin. 

Two years ago, Caruso received word from the Air Force that remains were found near Lt. Wilson’s suspected crash site in Papua New Guinea. A logging company came across a B-17 with serial numbers matching Lt. Wilson’s. Caruso made contact with Bob, who he had met through his research. 

“Thanks a lot to everyone for coming, I really appreciate it,” said Bob. “His life was cut short. To find remains would be wonderful. We believe he could be buried in Arlington, and that could be a conclusion.” 

“Every year on Memorial Day, the Town Council reads the eternal honor roll, and it’s something very special for all of us,” said Mayor Tamburro. “The memorials located outside are the pride of Verona. It’s been over eighty years but Verona appreciates the sacrifice that Lieutenant Wilson made for Verona, our country, and humanity.” 

Lt. Wilson’s family settled in Verona after living in South Jersey. An only child, Lt. Wilson attended the University of Virginia before joining the Air Force. Lt. Wilson served in the Pacific theater as a co-pilot on a B-17 Flying Fortress with the 19th Bomber Group. In August 1942, he and his crew shot down four Japanese Zeros, a common fighter plane. The mission also damaged or sank four Japanese ships.

For his bravery in combat, Lt. Wilson was awarded the Silver Star. The Silver Star was created after World War I to recognize gallantry in action. Caruso believes that Lt. Wilson is the highest decorated veteran that died in combat during World War II. After his last mission, Lt. Wilson was also awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and Purple Heart.

To learn more about Lt. Wilson and other Verona veterans, please visit the Verona Heroes website.