Fallen Trooper, Marine To Be Honored At Morris Township Field

MORRIS TOWNSHIP, NJ — Brian McNally had a big presence — not just physically but in his "booming voice and infectious laugh," according to the NJ Run for the Fallen. The Morristown High School alumnus, state trooper and Marine captain died in a crash in 2018. But soon the area will offer another way for the public to remember him.

A field dedication to McNally will take place at 10 a.m. Saturday at Freelan Green Park (Weatervane Drive, Morris Township).

McNally, 30, resided much of his life in the Morris Township area, graduating from Morristown High School in 2006. In his youth, McNally participated in Morristown Little League, Colonial Pee-Wee Hockey, Jr Colonials football, and the Cromwell Hills swim team, according to the Morris Educational Foundation.

In high school, he participated in football, lacrosse and swimming. And he actively volunteered for MHS Habitat for Humanity and was co-president of the Heritage Club.

Related article: NJ Trooper From Bedminster Dedicated Life To Serving Others

McNally attended The Citadel, where he played lacrosse and became part of the honor guard his knob (freshman) year. He was awarded a scholarship from the U.S. Marine Corps, which required five years of service upon graduation.

After completing active duty, McNally returned to Morristown. He got accepted into the New Jersey State Police Academy in Sea Girt for six months of training. He graduated in August 2014 and was assigned to the Washington Barracks in Warren County, according to NJ Run for the Fallen.

McNally, who most recently lived in Bedminster, was killed in a crash May 20, 2018, on I-78 in Pennsylvania, according to authorities. Gov. Phil Murphy ordered all U.S. and New Jersey flags to fly at half-staff two days later.

About the Dedication

The field dedication takes place at 10 a.m. Saturday at Freelan Green Park (Weatervane Drive, Morris Township).

Speakers will include Morris Township Deputy Mayor Mark Gyorfy, New Jersey First Lady Tammy Murphy, State Police Colonel Patrick J. Callahan and State Senator Anthony M. Bucco, who will have a legislative proclamation. The Morris Township Department of Parks and Recreation will unveil the sign honoring McNally.

Direct donations in his name can be made to the Morris Educational Foundation.

The Troopers United Foundation has "challenge coins" available for $15. Hats in his memory will be for sale at the event for $20 each. Net proceeds for both will support the Brian McNally Scholarship Fund.

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