Honoring Service Through Action: “Wills for Warriors” Supports Cape May County Veterans
- njHealth Team
- Jun 9
- 2 min read
In a heartfelt demonstration of gratitude and community collaboration, nearly 60 Cape May County veterans and their spouses received free legal services through the innovative “Wills for Warriors” program—an initiative designed to ensure those who served our country are supported in planning for their future with dignity and peace of mind.
Hosted at the Ocean City American Legion Morvay-Miley-Cruice Post 524, the program was led by Cape May County Surrogate Judge E. Marie Hayes and the Surrogate’s Office, in partnership with the New Jersey State Bar Association, the Cape May County Bar Association, and the Citizen/Veterans Advisory Committee (CVAC).
More than 20 volunteer attorneys generously donated their time and expertise to prepare essential documents—including wills, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives—at no cost to attendees. Well-respected firms such as King Barnes contributed multiple attorneys and law interns, alongside Shoreside Legal and dedicated local attorneys from Ocean City, Sea Isle City, and the Wildwoods, all working together to support those who have given so much.
“Veterans have risked everything in life to give us the freedoms we have today,” said Judge Hayes. “In Cape May County, we don’t just say we appreciate our veterans—we show it with actions.”
Among the many organizations supporting this meaningful effort, NJHealth Hospice and Palliative Care was proud to participate, providing a staff volunteer to serve as a witness during the signing of legal documents. This role—simple yet essential—helped ensure that each veteran’s wishes were properly documented, offering an additional layer of support and reassurance.
"The day was marked not only by legal service, but by connection, appreciation, and respect," said Margie Barham, director of special projects at NJHealth who volunteered for the day. "Volunteers, attorneys, and community partners worked side by side to create an environment where veterans felt seen, valued, and cared for. It was a honor to be a part of this effort."
Programs like “Wills for Warriors” reflect the very best of South Jersey—where collaboration, compassion, and community come together to meet the needs of those who have served. For NJHealth, a proud member of CVAC, it is yet another opportunity to extend its mission beyond patient care, standing alongside veterans and their families with the same commitment to dignity, comfort, and support that defines its work every day. The NJHealth Hospice and Palliative Care Team offer specialized care to meet the unique needs of veterans, especially at end-of-life.
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