COLD SPRING – Jim Rodan, 88, a World War II veteran of the U.S. Navy and resident of the Cold Spring section of Lower Township, is the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities’ (MAC) Volunteer of the Month for Nov. Rodan shows the medals he earned for service on four different destroyers in World War II campaigns in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Pacific. Rodan was involved in major battles of the war including Okinawa, Iwo Jima and the Battle of Leyte Gulf.
Museum Education Director R.E. “Bob” Heinly nominated Rodan for his dedication. Rodan volunteered almost every day this summer at the World War II Lookout Tower, which features the “Wall of Honor,” “Cape May’s World War II Honor Roll,” and is dedicated to the brave men and women from the Cape May area who served. Rodan provides information to visitors, sometimes climbing to the third floor of the tower with the help of his cane.
Rodan enlisted in the Navy in 1942 at age 18 and served until 1948, working as a Boiler Tender. When asked what he enjoys most about his volunteer work at the World War II Lookout Tower, Rodan said he likes meeting people from all over the world. “Chile. Japan. China. England. Canadians,” he said. “They ask me all kinds of questions.” Visitors often share stories of their own family’s experiences during the war, he added. The tower is open Saturdays through Nov. 12 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Volunteer of the Month award is given to a person who demonstrates a high degree of dedication, commitment and constancy to MAC’s volunteer program. For more information on volunteer opportunities, please contact Barbara Hubmaster at 609-884-5404, ext. 109, or email bhubmaster@capemaymac.org.
The Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC) is a multifaceted not-for-profit organization committed to promoting the preservation, interpretation, and cultural enrichment of the Cape May region for its residents and visitors. MAC membership is open to all. For information about MAC’s year-round schedule of tours, festivals, and special events, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278, or visit MAC’s Web site at www.capemaymac.org.
Cape May – Governor Murphy says he doesn't know anything about the drones and doesn't know what they are doing but he does know that they are not dangerous. Does anyone feel better now?
