Mel Woda, Past Commander of the Jewish War Veterans Asbury Park-Ocean Post 125, and member of Congregation Torat El  has been honored as the State of New Jersey Commander of the Year 2009-2010.

He was nominated and selected from a roster of forty distinguished NJ State Commanders.  Mel was recognized for his outstanding Post leadership, exceptional dedication, and community service to NJ veterans in memorial homes and veterans hospitals regardless of race, religion, or creed. Mel has participated annually on Memorial Day and Veteran Day activities as a member of the  Veterans Alliance with Asbury Park Catholic War Veteran Post 714 and VFW Harold Daley Post 1333.

Mel has continued to serve as a key note speaker at different venues on veteran holidays.

Post 125 established in Asbury Park in 1936, with a current membership of 240, is the second largest JWV organization in New Jersey.

Mel is a Korean War Veteran and a lifetime resident of Monmouth County living in Ocean Township for over 45 years.  He grew up in Bradley Beach and then moved to Asbury Park after his marriage to Helene. He is a graduate of Bradley Beach Grammar School, Asbury Park High School and Monmouth College. He has two children, son Michael Woda a Wall Street employee, and daughter Robin Woda Bauer who resides with husband Bob and four children in Ocean Township.

See photos.