The Rotary Club of Enfield is honoring Enfield’s veterans by sponsoring military tribute banners that will be displayed in Higgins Park, the Town Green, Freshwater Walkway, North Main Street and Hazardville between Memorial Day and Veterans Day in 2026 and 2027. The Enfield Public Library partnered with Enfield Rotary to preserve digital versions of these banners as well as biographical information about each veteran.

paul anthony Grunert

United States navy 1981-1985

seaman

navy expeditionary medal

good conduct medal

Paul Anthony Grunert enlisted in the United States Navy in 1981, completing recruit training and Machinist’s Mate “A” School at the Naval Training Center in Great Lakes, North Chicago, Illinois. He subsequently served four years aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower as a member of the Engineering Department’s A Division, where he was responsible for the maintenance and operation of critical shipboard equipment.

During his naval service, Paul completed two deployments to the Mediterranean Sea, including operations conducted off the coasts of Lebanon and Libya in 1983. In recognition of his service, he was awarded the Navy Expeditionary Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. He received an honorable discharge in 1986.

Following his military service, He began a civilian career with Hamilton Standard, where he has been employed for 40 years. In addition to his professional accomplishments, he has made significant contributions to his community as a volunteer coach with the Enfield Hockey Association for 25 years, mentoring and inspiring numerous young athletes.

Paul is married to Melinda Grunert and is the father of two adult children, Seth and Taylore Grunert.