Thomas J. Hanratty was born on September 21, 1967.  An Elizabeth resident all his life, he attended Elmora School 12, Hamilton Middle School, Elizabeth High School and Kean College.  Thomas was also baseball player for Elmora Youth League.  He started with the league in 1976.  He played 2 years in the minor league, 2 years in the major league, and 3 years in the pony league.  Some of his coaches through those years were Pat Reidy, Pat Olear, Joe Brennan, Bill Maslo, and his father, Tom Hanratty Sr.   Tom Hanratty Sr. was a volunteer staff and board member of the Elmora Youth League in 1979 and 1980.

Trooper Hanratty graduated from the 112th State Police recruit class in February 1989 and was assigned to Troop B, which covers northern New Jersey.  Trooper Hanratty was killed in the line of duty on April 2, 1992.

Col. Justin Dintino, then superintendent of the State Police was quoted as saying, "Throughout his assignment, Trooper Hanratty displayed courtesy and professionalism and offered aid and to the citizens of New Jersey."

The Trooper Thomas J. Hanratty Memorial Complex is a tribute to a hometown boy.  A hometown boy, who lived and played in some of the same neighborhoods as the current children of Elmora Youth League, This memorial can only set a good example for these children