NORTH BERGEN, NJ — The North Bergen Police Department celebrated the 100th birthday of Peter F. Riva, a World War II Navy veteran, with a special visit and long-overdue recognition for his service.
Riva, who served aboard the USS Windsor in active combat in the Pacific and later as part of Japan’s occupying forces after the 1945 surrender, was awarded the New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal—79 years after his service ended—thanks to the efforts of Officer Eric Crafton.
The department’s Community Relations Unit, escorted by the Motorcycle Squad, arrived at Riva’s home last week to mark the milestone. Officer Christian Arcos, a member of the Army National Guard Honor Guard, presented Riva with a folded American flag in honor of his military service. He also received a certificate of appreciation and birthday greetings from the Adjutant General of the New Jersey National Guard.
The celebration included Italian pastries donated by the NJVSA and a birthday cake from Rispoli’s Bakery. The event was coordinated by the Community Relations Unit under the leadership of Public Safety Commissioner Allen Pascual and Police Chief Robert J. Farley Jr.
Officer Crafton noted Riva’s recognition was “79 years overdue.”
