John L. Gutbrod, a retired 1st Sgt. of the U.S. Army and Air Force, was recognized by the citizens of the Borough of Surf City for contributing $500 for the American flagpole for Veterans' Memorial Park and for being the first citizen to contribute to the memorial honoring veterans. During combat against German forces in World War II with the 507th Paratrooper Infantry Regiment, he received a Silver Star, a Bronze Star, and two Purple Hearts. He and his wife Mildred moved to Surf City in 1980, and he was honored for his brave service to America and his enduring contributions to the community.