One of the victims of the mass shooting in Washington, DC originally grew up in the South Jersey area.
Martin Bodrog, 54, was one of 12 civilians killed on Monday after a gunman, identified by authorities as 34-year-old Aaron Alexis, opened fire inside the Naval Sea Systems Command Headquarters in Southeast D.C.
Bodrog spent his high school years in Audubon, New Jersey, graduating in 1977. In 1981 he graduated from the United States Naval Academy and served as a surface warfare officer for 22 years.
After retiring, Bodrog continued to serve his country by overseeing the design and procurement of ships for the Navy.
“His expertise and experience in amphibious operations allowed Marty to make lasting contributions to amphibious ship design that will contribute to the success of the Navy Marine Corps team for years to come,” said his wife Melanie in a written statement.
Bodrog’s older brother, Julius Bodrog, who lives in Sewell, New Jersey, described him as a “fantastic brother, husband and father.”
Bodrog and his family also taught pre-school Sunday school and participated in “Young Life,” a Christian outreach program for high school students.
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Bodrog was in the Philadelphia area last August when his family took him to a Phillies game. Despite the fact that he was a diehard Boston fan, Bodrog’s brother says he was thrilled to see his little brother smile at the sight of a Phillies’ victory.
In addition to his wife, Bodrog is also survived by three daughters, ages 23, 17 and 16.
“A humble, loving father and neighbor, Marty could frequently be seen in all types of weather, in shorts and his trademark Boston Bruins Jersey, walking his dog and helping to shovel all the driveways of his elderly neighbors,” wrote his wife. “Marty was a source of great inspiration to his family and friends. Those of us who were lucky enough to know Marty are better people for it.”
