BRIDGEWATER, NJ – Artist James Fiorentino paid tribute to the life, legacy and land preservation efforts of World War II pilot Lt. Col. Vaucher, just days before the decorated aviator passed away at the age of 102 last week.
Fiorentino had been able to connect with Vaucher via a Zoom connection to show him the portrait he had painted. Vaucher, a veteran of 117 air missions during the World War II era, passed away a few days later.
The painting was presented to Vaucher s family during a virtual meeting of the Bridgewater Township Council on Feb. 11, 2021. The Flemington artist made the presentation along with D&R Greenway Land Trust President & CEO Linda Mead in recognition of Vaucher s efforts to preserve the historic 36-acre Steele s Gap tract.