In Memoriam

At D-Day Event
Mr Ehlert with a WW2 re-enactor during events for the 75th Anniversary of D-Day

It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of D-Day Veteran Richard Ehlert.

Richard Valentine Ehlert was a Jersey City native and long-time resident of Milltown, NJ.  From 1943-1946, he served in the US Navy on board LST-495, beginning as a Machinist Mate and rising to Petty Officer First Class.  

Mr. Ehlert and the crew of LST-495 were active participants in the D-Day Landings in Normandy France.  Like other ships of their Class, they shuttled GI’s and equipment on shore and returned to Great Britain with wounded soldiers and POW’s.  LST-495 would later serve in the Pacific Theatre where he and his comrades would witness the Japanese surrender in Tokyo Bay formally ending WWII.

After completing his service, Dick met and married Anne, who was the love of his life.  He would be recalled by the US Navy to serve during the Korean War on board an LCN as the Engineer.  Upon completion of his obligations, he would again return to NJ where he and Anne settled in Milltown and raised two boys, Robert and Thomas.

Mr. Ehlert would spend many years as a Boy Scout leader where he distinguished himself as one of the finest in NJ and throughout the Nation.  He continued to give back to the Maritime Services as a member of the Navy League of the US (NLUS).  After serving for many years as a Senior Vice President, he would become Council President from 2007 through 2008.  His passion to support the US Navy at Naval Weapons Station Earle and to many US Coast Guard Cutters specifically the USCGC Katherine Walker was beyond reproach.  He became a National Director for the NLUS in 2009 until he and his beloved Anne moved to West Jersey with his son Bob and his family.  

Though Anne passed away three years ago, Dick continued to meet with his fellow Veterans weekly for breakfast or lunch at one of their favorite “haunts”.   He remained active in the Council serving continuously since 2009 as a member of our own Board of Directors.

Richard Valentine Ehlert passed away this past Saturday, April 25, 2020 at age 95.  His ashes will be commended to the sea at a future date in the manner fitting and proper of a fine Navy Sailor.  We wish our friend “Fair Winds and Following Sea’s” as he makes his final voyage home to his beloved Anne.

Please feel free to share your thoughts or stories of Dick Ehlert

3 Replies to “In Memoriam”

  1. Bill Keller

    I am saddened to learn of the passing of Dick Ehlert. I had the honor and pleasure to meet and work with Dick when he was the President of the CNJ Council, and I the Region President in 2007 and 2008. Dick was truly a superior council president by any measure. While a quiet leader, Dick went about his job and exceed his responsibilities without fanfare in a most efficient manner. It was obvious his first concern was doing what was “right” for the members of his council!

    I am thankful I was able to share a few words with Dick at the CNJ Annual Meeting in January. Dick’s bio speaks for itself!

    I’m honored to say I knew Dick as a fellow Navy shipmate and member of the NLUS.

    We have lost a truly great American.

    Fair Winds and Following Seas

    Bill Keller
    Captain, USN (Ret.)

  2. Daniel A Dermer

    Farewell my friend, my colleague and adopted dad. As promised, I will commit your ashes to the Sea and my memory of you to my Soul.

  3. Gary C. Chapman

    O Lord Jesus Christ, You have shown us that death is but the gateway to a more glorious life, and that we must not fear its coming; and we know, also, that neither life nor death can separate us from Your love. Assure us yet again that our comrade Richard Valentine Ehlert departed is not lost to us, but sharing new life with You in the Kingdom of our Father, where we shall in Your good time be reunited. We know him to be with You forever. In Your name we pray. Amen

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