The Township of Nutley has announced that Mayor John V. Kelly, III, the youngest Mayor elected in the Township’s history, will be deployed to Iraq to serve our country beginning in August.

"We are so very proud of our mayor, U.S. Army Maj. John Kelly as he deploys with the New Jersey Army National Guard in support of Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve," said Commissioner Alphonse Petracco, Director of Public Safety.  "We wish John and all our Citizen-Soldiers success and safety as they complete their mission in Iraq." 

Mayor Kelly, who will be deployed for approximately six months, serves as the unit commander's legal advisor. 

“I am honored to be able to serve my country,” Mayor Kelly says, “and I am grateful that with the support of my fellow Board of Commissioners, our Township government and I will continue to function as we always have. Deputy Mayor Evans is ready to preside over Board of Commission meetings.” According to state law, the Revenue and Finance commissioner is the Deputy Mayor.

Nutley Commissioners Comment on Mayor’s Deployment

With the official announcement that Mayor John V. Kelly, III will be deployed to Iraq this August, the remaining members of the Nutley Board of Commissioners expressed their sentiments regarding the news.

“As our mayor and an active service member, we wish him much success during his deployment,” said Department of Revenue and Finance Commissioner Thomas J. Evans, (who is serving as acting Deputy Mayor). “I truly hope for his safe return, and we will carry on in his absence in the Nutley tradition.”

Commissioner Joseph P. Scarpelli of the Department of Public Works added, “Godspeed to the mayor as he serves our country. I look forward to his participating in any way he can over the next six months. God bless him and all our servicemen.”

“I wish Mayor Kelly the best of luck during his tour of duty,” said Parks and Recreation Commissioner Mauro G. Tucci. “We all appreciate his service and can’t wait for him to return to Nutley safe and sound.”

Public Safety Commissioner Alphonse Petracco remarked, “We are honored to have an active serviceman on our Board, and we wish him good luck and Godspeed during his tour of duty.”