Joe's Heroes
Senator Lieberman is pleased to honor the accomplishments of some of Connecticut's outstanding citizens, organizations, and schools.
Profiles
Senator Lieberman recognized John Niekrash of Mystic as one of "Joe's Heroes" for his selfless donation of his fishing vessel to a returning Iraq veteran interested in pursuing a career on the water. John, a commercial lobsterman for 20 years, got the idea to donate his vessel, Krasher III, after attending a golf benefit in Stonington. He was inspired by the story of Master Sergeant Justin Clough who described the hardships veterans face upon returning to civilian life. John decided he wanted to make this an annual event, and with the help of Noank Shipyard which has maintained Krasher III for 17 years, established Work Vessels for Veterans.
"Providing returning veterans with a head start in establishing their civilian careers is a noble cause," Senator Lieberman said. "John's gallant donation and his efforts in helping veterans transition back to civilian life will make a difference in the lives of American heroes who have bravely served our nation."
The news of John's donation was published in two magazines in January. Marine Reservist Richard Giguere was the first to inquire about Krasher III. After meeting with Giguere, John awarded him the vessel. John and the Noank Shipyard are currently looking for a donor and qualified veteran recipient for next year's award.
Tom Pandolfi -- January 2008
Chief Neil O'Leary -- October 2007
Blanca Santana -- September 2006
Kevin's Community Clinic: Community Health Center in Newtown -- September 2006
Stars of Life: Connecticut's Outstanding EMS Professionals -- June 2006
Joan Mandzuk: CT School Nurse of the Year -- February 2006
Devine Bros, Inc. and Santa Energy, Inc.: CT Innovators in Biofuel -- January 2006
Sergeant James Walsh: Norwalk, CT Police Department -- November 2005
Cal Torres, Carmen Nieves, Angel Reyes: CT Delegates to the 6th Annual Hispanic Leadership Summit -- September 2005
Donna Swanson: Director, FOCUS Alternative Learning Center -- June 2005
Dr. Burt Saxon: Teacher of the Year for Connecticut -- May 2005
Linda Robak: Founder and Chair, For the Children-SOS -- April 2005
Mary Fetchet: Founder of Voices of September 11 -- June 2004
Edward S. Banas Sr.: Commander in Chief of the Veterans of Foreign Wars -- August 2003
Cammy Kaplan: Connecticut's Small Business Person of the Year -- August 2003
Claire's Corner Copia and J. Timothy's Taverne: Restaurant Neighbor Award Winners -- August 2003
The International Institute of Connecticut and Myra M. Oliver -- August 2003
Sheridan Communication and Technology Middle School: NASA Explorer School -- August 2003
Senator Lieberman Honors Our Heroes -- August 2003
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