Milam Retires, Andrzejczak Gets Dem’s Nod for Assembly

VINELAND – The announcement was a well-kept secret: only that a major, “historic” announcement would be made regarding the all-Democrat First Legislative team headed by Sen. Jeff Van Drew, Assemblyman Nelson Albano and Assemblyman Matthew Milam. Only the place, Cosmopolitan Restaurant on South Delsea Drive, Feb, 28 and time were public.
Soon enough it was learned why all the secrecy: Milam announced his retirement, and the party nominated former Army Sgt. Robert Andrzejczak, of Middle Township, to take his place. The trio who will seek election in November will be Van Drew, Albano and Andrzejczak.
The dining room filled with party faithful who drove, or came in car pools, from Cape May County and Atlantic County to this place to hear the announcement that was so secretive.
Assemblyman Matthew Milam told the crowd he always desired to serve his family, church, community and state. Joking, he said he “had a conversation with the Pope today” for the opportunities that are afforded me, I need to continue with…” then his portable microphone went dead. Someone said it was the pope speaking. Pope Benedict XVI retired this day, the first pontiff to resign in 600 years.
Handed a working microphone, Milam continued by lauding his firm’s management team for keeping the business prospering as he tended to the work of New Jersey’s people.
He thanked the voters who placed him in the Assembly and all who helped him through his years of service, then announced his retirement, and cited business reasons that called for his full attention. His company is Foundry Service Corporation based in Vineland.
Van Drew then noted that Milam was not headed for “a big, fat padded job” after leaving the Legislature. “The only jobs Matt Milam has are those he created for 100 people over the last few years” in his private business. “He’s a good man who loves his family, his faith, his state,” said Van Drew. He added that Milam did “an amazing job for this district. I am proud of you and am proud to call you my friend, and always my colleague.”
Van Drew gave an emotional introduction to the 26-year-old Middle Township resident, Andrzejczak.
A video clip was shown on monitors throughout the restaurant of the Army veterans with Oprah Winfrey as he went through physical therapy after losing his leg when an enemy grenade was hurled at the vehicle in which he was riding.
Van Drew described him as “Tough, just an average America, an average South Jerseyan who wanted to fight for us, to protect us in the war on terrorism.”
Andrzejczak received a host of medals for his service and heroism, including the Purple Heart and Bronze Star.
In his brief acceptance speech, Andrzejczak said he was honored by Van Drew to run with him and Albano. “Jeff represents the value of word work and honesty,” said Andrzejczak.
“I will fight for this district just as hard as I fought for this country,” Andrzejczak said to the cheering crowd. “I will fight for the people of New Jersey,” he added, declaring, “We can do better for the vets.”
Albano said he was “proud and honored, it doesn’t get any better than this, just standing next to this gentleman. He is what we consider a true American hero.” At that point the crowd rose to its feet and gave the team a standing ovation.
Democratic Party chairs from Cape May, Atlantic and Cumberland received support for Andrzejczak’s candidacy.