MICHAEL SALVATORE AULETTA, of Long Branch, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 11, 2012, at Kings Manor in Neptune, at the age of 87 years. Born in Hackensack, he has lived in Long Branch for 40 years. Prior to retiring, he was a Sergeant for the Bergen County Sheriff's Office in Hackensack, where he worked for 39 years. He served his country during World War II in the United States Army in the 115th Anti-Aircraft Artillery serving under General George S. Patton in the 1st, 3rd, and 7th Army division. He participated in the invasion of Normandy, Northern France, Ardennes, Rhineland and Central Europe Campaigns and was the recipient of numerous medals and citations. He was a member of the American Legion Doremus Post # 55 of Hackensack, and the P.B.A, Mutual Aid Society of Bergen County. Beloved husband of the late Louise Minardi Auletta. Devoted father of Daniel Auletta of Freehold, Kevin Auletta of Las Vegas, Michelle Auletta, Denise Auletta and Joseph Auletta all of Long Branch. Loving son of the late Daniel and Mildred Lamberti Auletta. Dearest brother of Vito Auletta and his wife Joan of Pompton Lakes, Nicoletta Celentano and her husband Frank of River Vale and the late Frank Auletta. Loving uncle of several nieces and nephews. Prayers will be recited at the funeral home on Tuesday at 1:00 PM with burial following at Hackensack Cemetery.  Visitation will be from  11:00 AM until the time of the service. The family requests that you kindly omit flowers and honor his memory with a donation to the Alzheimer's Association., 400 Morris Avenue, Suite 251, Denville, NJ  07834.