Aboard the Battleship New Jersey, surrounded by friends, family and the ship’s important legacy, John “Johnny Q” Quinesso Sr. marked a milestone: his 100th birthday. The World War II Navy veteran and longtime volunteer was honored last week with a special luncheon and recognition ceremony on the nation’s most decorated battleship. The celebration was Thursday; his actual birthday was Jan. 24.
For Quinesso, a lifelong South Jersey resident, the celebration was not just about longevity — it is about service that has never stopped. Apart from serving three years in the South Pacific as a Radioman 2nd Class, the WWII veteran has spent more than two decades volunteering at the Battleship New Jersey Museum, sharing his experiences and educating students and visitors from around the world.
