On May 2026, Joshua Haddad, a cadet lieutenant colonel from Salem County Vocational Technical High School, and his parents spotted a wrecked vehicle on Kings Highway near Auburn Road. The vehicle had trapped two occupants, and within minutes Haddad leapt into action, pulling them free while his parents provided support. The incident, witnessed by local residents, turned a routine church trip into a lifesaving operation.
The AFJROTC Gold Valor Award is the highest decoration a cadet can receive, reserved for those who voluntarily accept life‑threatening risks to save others. Only six cadets nationwide have earned the honor in the past decade, and none in New Jersey until Haddad.
Haddad's nomination underwent a stringent review, with investigators scrutinizing the rescue footage, interviewing witnesses, and confirming the absence of any eligibility violations. The AFJROTC headquarters ultimately endorsed the award, citing his actions as exemplary of the program's core values.
For Salem County Vocational Technical School, Haddad's recognition highlights the cadet program's mission to foster citizenship, responsibility, and community service. The school announced a formal ceremony on October 23, 2026, where Haddad will receive the medal while celebrating his graduation.
The award ceremony will also spotlight Haddad's journey from a church‑going teenager to a national role model, underscoring how a single act of courage can ripple beyond its immediate impact. The ceremony is slated for Friday, October 23, 2026, with the AFJROTC headquarters and local dignitaries in attendance.