County Freeholders Honor Veterans Service Officer

For 10 years Howell resident Phil Finch has volunteered his time as a veterans service officer for people in Monmouth and Ocean counties. 

The Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders honored Finch Aug. 9 for his service to the people he helped during that time. As a veterans services officer, Finch helped with a variety of tasks including service-connected compensation and pension claims, a press release from the county said. 

Finch went above and beyond his duties as he helped many people, some who were dealing with "upsetting combat related events," including injuries and sickness that come with military service the release said. 

Freeholder Director John P. Curley said Finch has been a big help to the people who have come to him.

"Phil Finch is extremely knowledgeable on the issues that veterans face," Curley said. "He did his work with tireless compassion, drive and determination and has helped many who have served our great nation in the armed forces."