NJ Sharing Network Honors the Legacy of Army Veteran Dennis Vaccaro – A Life of Selflessness and Service
(West Long Branch, NJ) – This Veterans Day, NJ Sharing Network proudly honors the memory of U.S. Army Sergeant Dennis Andrew Vaccaro of West Long Branch, NJ, whose life and selfless gifts as an organ donor continue to inspire and bring hope to others. A dedicated soldier, loving son, husband, brother and friend, Dennis lived a life of purpose and bravery, embodying service both in life and beyond.
Dennis joined the U.S. Army in February 2016, a journey that led him to serve as an airborne combat medic within the 82nd Airborne Division. Throughout his five years of service, including a tour in Afghanistan, Dennis’s devotion to his fellow soldiers and his country was evident. He was the kind of soldier who put the needs of others above his own, even volunteering his leave time so a fellow soldier could be with family.
“Dennis had a way of always putting others first, even in the smallest things,” said his mother, Teresa Vaccaro. “That’s who Dennis was - selfless, thoughtful, and always looking out for others.”
Dennis’s life was tragically cut short in June 2023 following a motorcycle accident, but his commitment to helping others continued through his final act of service. As an organ donor, Dennis saved four lives—his heart, kidneys, and liver were transplanted to patients in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania, giving them a second chance at life.
“Dennis’s caring spirit continues to live on,” said Teresa. “His organs went to people he’d never met, yet they’re connected to him in the most extraordinary way. Our family likes to say he gave them 'super gifts,' and that’s exactly the kind of man he was - strong, generous, and truly heroic. Knowing that Dennis left a legacy of love, bravery, and service is a source of comfort and pride for us. Dennis was our light, and while his loss leaves a void in all of us who knew him, his gifts as an organ donor have been a way for us to heal. He didn’t just leave us - he’s still giving, and that makes all the difference.”
In addition to his military service and lifesaving gifts, Dennis’s legacy lives on through the recently established Dennis A. Vaccaro Foundation. The foundation raises funds to support veterans, organ donation advocacy, and scholarships for students at Shore Regional High School pursuing both academic and vocational paths.
According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), over 100,000 Americans are waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant, with nearly 4,000 of them in New Jersey. One organ and tissue donor can save eight lives and enhance the lives of over 75 others. However, the opportunity to give the gift of life is extremely rare - not everyone who registers as a donor is able to donate after they pass away. In fact, less than 1% of all deaths meet the specific medical criteria to be an organ donor. This underscores the pressing need for more registered donors. To learn more about organ donation, get involved, and join the National Donate Life Registry, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.
PHOTO CAPTION – (At center) Dennis Vaccaro with his parents, Chris and Teri Vaccaro
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