photos courtesy of Westwood Mayor Ray Arroyo
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
WESTWOOD, NJ — A piece of World War II naval history has found a new home in Westwood, thanks to the dedication of Eagle Scout candidate Michael Rocco Greco of Troop 321.
This past weekend, Michael completed his Eagle Scout Project: the restoration of a massive anchor believed to have been used on a WWII-era LST (Landing Ship, Tank) landing craft. The artifact was discovered on Facebook Marketplace, offered by a hobbyist who restores old anchors, and traced back to upstate New York.
Restoring a WWII Relic
Sandblasting the anchor took Michael four Saturday mornings and about 14 total hours of work. He meticulously refinished it with marine-grade epoxy paint — one coat of primer, three coats of black, and three coats of gray — transforming the rusted relic into a preserved monument.
Now, the anchor proudly stands at Veterans Park in Westwood, honoring members of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marine who have served, and continue to serve, the nation.
A Family Legacy of Service
The project carries special meaning for Michael. The restored anchor rests behind a memorial bench dedicated to his grandfather, Alfred Greco, a U.S. Navy Petty Officer who served during the Korean War. Alfred’s Hometown Hero banner also flies on the lamppost directly in front of the bench.
The Eagle Scout legacy continues in the family as well. Michael’s older brother, Anthony, previously completed his own Eagle project by spearheading the Hometown Hero banners displayed across Westwood’s Central Business District. Anthony is expected to graduate Westwood High School in 2026 and hopes to attend West Point.
Honoring History Ahead of Navy’s 250th Anniversary
Michael’s contribution comes at a meaningful time, as the nation approaches the 250th Anniversary of the U.S. Navy on October 13, 2025. The restored anchor not only symbolizes strength and sacrifice but also ties together community, history, and family.
Residents and visitors can now see the restored WWII anchor at Westwood Veterans Park, where it will remain a lasting tribute to American service members — past, present, and future.
Join the new Saddle River Valley, Ramapo and Pascack Valley Communities Facebook group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1931704860512551/
#news #follow #media #trending #viral #newsupdate #currentaffairs #BergenCountyNews #NJBreakingNews #NJHeadlines #NJTopStories
Nice story thx PJ
Congratulations!