Blue Mass in Newark honors fallen law enforcement
NEWARK, New Jersey (WABC) -- The Archdiocese of Newark held its 30th Annual "Blue Mass" to honor all New Jersey law enforcement officers.
They honored 12 police officers who have died.
For the first time, they also honored two local firefighters.
Newark Fire Captains Augusto Acabou and Wayne Brooks, Jr. died while battling a fire on a cargo ship at Port Newark in July.
The service was held in Newark's Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart.
This year's liturgy paid tribute to 12 hero police officers including U.S. Customs Supervisor Jacqueline Montanaro, who died while trying to rescue her daughter from a housefire.
Also being honored were: Bayonne Police Captain Paul Jamolawicz, Port Authority Police Officer Anthony Varvaro, Deptford Township Police Officer Robert Shisler, Timothy Sullivan of the Bergen County Sheriff's Office, and New Jersey State Police Lieutenant Gerald Barbato.
Cardinal Tobin presided over the liturgy.
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