Trenton, NJ – New Jersey Assemblyman Sean Kean has successfully spearheaded a bill to name a section of Route 71 in Spring Lake Heights in memory of World War II veteran John Tarantino. The bill (A4955), signed into law on Tuesday, designates mileposts 3.25 to 3.70 as the “John Tarantino Highway.”
Tarantino, a Brooklyn native born to Italian immigrants in 1924, served in the 47th Armored Infantry Battalion, 5th Armored Division, 3rd United States Army Group under Gen. George S. Patton. His notable military career included participating in the liberation of Luxembourg, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge. He was one of only two soldiers from his company, originally 200 strong, who landed on Utah Beach and were not wounded or killed after five months of fighting.
Surviving the Malmedy Massacre, Tarantino returned home due to severe frostbite and was honorably discharged. His decorations include the WWII European Campaign Ribbon with three Bronze Battle Stars, the Purple Heart, and the Combat Infantryman Badge. In civilian life, he quietly married and dedicated himself to helping other disabled veterans, notably working with the Disabled American Veterans charity.
Kean, in paying tribute to Tarantino, highlighted his bravery, selflessness, and devotion to causes for veterans. Tarantino’s commitment to his country and community made him a true American patriot. This gesture of naming a stretch of highway after him acknowledges his significant contributions and service.
John Tarantino passed away on November 24, 2022, just days before his 98th birthday, leaving behind a legacy of heroism and patriotism that will now be memorialized along Route 71.