The bridge by the Heritage Diner connecting Bogota and Hackensack is dedicated to Harold Dillard

VIETNAM VALOR

HAROLD ‘DUKE’ DILLARD      

Harold Dillard joined the Marines after graduating Hackensack High School. After training in the
United States, Harold Dillard was sent to Vietnam. Harold Dillard was involved in Operation Hastings, one of the largest combat operations up until July 1966. He received the Vietnam Gallantry Cross for his Valor during this campaign in October 1966.  
  
        He was returned to combat during another major offensive called Operation Hickory in May 1967.  During intense fighting along the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) during this operation, Harold ‘Duke’ Dillard was killed in action on May 25, 1967.  
        
        Harold Dillard received the Coaches Award for outstanding sportsmanship in his senior year at Hackensack High School 1965. The Purple Heart which Harold Dillard received after being hit by enemy fire during Operation Hickory was given posthumously to his family.
 
Let us never forget the Marines Sacrifice.

Harold Dillard's brother is George Dillard.

Written by:
Bob Meli
September 2008

Operation Hastings

Bridge Rededication
“People Remember”
Let us never forget
September 7 and 8, 2012