Professional Documents
Culture Documents
2018 Vhof Book
2018 Vhof Book
Flanagan
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
The veterans gathered here today have given their lives to a cause
greater than themselves and, in doing so, have protected our country
and way of life. Today we honor these heroic New Yorkers whom we
owe a tremendous debt of gratitude. Their past bravery in military
endeavors has helped shape the American landscape - a country of
strength, freedom and diverse beauty.
Finally, as we pay homage to all the veterans, let us not forget the
families – fathers, mothers, daughters and sons – who also participated
in the rich tradition of military life. Thank you all for your laudable
service to our nation.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
The first official Armistice Day events were held on the grounds
of Buckingham Palace, England on the morning of November 11, 1919.
Also in November 1919, U.S. President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed
November 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day. These
observances inspired a day of remembrance throughout the world.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
PROGRAM
OPENING OF CEREMONY
Julia Lilkendey
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
SPEAKERS
Senator John J. Flanagan
Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins
INTRODUCTION OF HONOREES
Julia Lilkendey
SPECIAL THANKS
Gettysburg Flag Works for their
generous donation of centerpieces.
www.gettysburgflag.com
Susan E. Wells
[email protected]
NEW YORK STATE SENATE
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
Mr. Rivera enlisted in the United States Navy in 1975. He served in Operation
Desert Shield and Desert Storm during the first Gulf War and remained in Saudi
Arabia, working with the Saudi Navy for four years until his military retirement.
Some of Mr. Rivera’s many duty assignments during his 20-year military career
included: Pearl Harbor, Hawaii; Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet, Pacific
Missile Range Barking Sands, San Diego, California; Commander Naval Surface
Forces Pacific Representative, Chief, Naval Forces Division, U.S. Military
Training Mission, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Upon his military retirement, Mr. Rivera worked for the Veterans Health
Administration at VA Hudson Valley Health Care System and received a
gubernatorial appointment to serve on the New York State Council on
Returning Veterans and Their Families, a position he has held since 2009.
He is the Past President of the County Veteran’s Service Officers Association,
having represented over 80 veterans’ service counselors across the state.
Mr. Rivera remains active at VA Hudson Valley Health Care System, with the
United Way Dutchess-Orange Region, Congressman Maloney’s Veteran Advisory
Board and the Town of Plattekill Veterans Committee. He and his wife, Christina,
reside in Plattekill and have three grown children and seven grandchildren.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
MICHAEL O’KANE
Michael O’Kane, who has served as President of Vietnam Veterans of America
Queens Chapter 32, was born in Brooklyn in 1948.
PO3 O’Kane enlisted in the United States Navy in 1966 and attended Great Lakes
“Boot” Camp prior to being assigned to the U.S.S. Implicit (MSO-455). Implicit
home ported in Long Beach, California, was deployed to WestPac and participated
in Operation “Market Time,” which was the most successful counter-insurgency
operation of the Vietnam War.
Following his time on Implicit, PO3 O’Kane was transferred to the U.S.S. Widgeon
(MSC-208), which was ported in Sasebo, Japan. Widgeon deployed to Camranh
Bay RVN, and also operated with I.U.W.G.-1 in Operation “Market Time.” Widgeon
engaged the enemy many times in firefights along various rivers and canals in
the RVN, earning the ship the Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Medal,
Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the U.S. Navy Combat Action Ribbon, Presidential
Unit Citation, and Meritorious Unit Citation.
In honor of his service, PO3 O’Kane was awarded the National Defense Medal,
Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal (with three campaign stars),
Combat Action Ribbon, Presidential Unit Citation, and the Meritorious Unit
Citation. He left the United States Navy in 1970 after achieving the rank of Petty
Officer Third Class, and began a distinguished career with New York Telephone,
retiring in 1998.
Michael married his best friend, Cathy, in 1979, and they live in Glendale, Queens
with their two cats, Yuki and Tuck.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
MARIO A. ZOROVIC
Mario A. Zorovic nobly joined the United States Army in 2006 immediately after
high school. He served honorably as part of the 111th Engineering Group of the
1st Engineer Battalion, also known as “Big Red One” from 2005 – 2009, and
deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
A decorated combat veteran, Sgt. Zorovic was awarded a Combat Action Badge,
the National Defense Service Medal and the Bronze Star Medal with “V” for Valor
for his exceptionally courageous actions as a combat engineer during Operation
Iraqi Freedom. Without regard for his own safety, Sgt. Zorovic dismounted his
vehicle and moved through intense enemy fire in order to take effective control
of a recovery operation. His bravery and technical skills allowed the patrol to
successfully recover mission-critical equipment and defeat the enemy. Sgt.
Zorovic’s heroism contributed immeasurably to the success of building a free and
democratic nation for the citizens of Iraq and aligned with the finest traditions of
military heroism.
In 2009, Sgt. Zorovic was honorably discharged from active duty and immediately
joined the United States Army Reserve until 2016. During this time, he earned his
Associate’s degree in Criminal Justice.
In an effort to more closely serve his local community and follow in the footsteps
of his father, a retired New York City Police Officer, Sgt. Zorovic became a
member of the New York State Police on August 4, 2014. He has been described
by his superiors and colleagues as an extremely talented trooper and a pleasure
to work with, who can be relied upon to handle any situation. Aside from patrol,
Trooper Zorovic performs several other specialized duties for the State Police,
including serving as a Firearms Instructor and as a Field Training Officer.
Trooper Zorovic currently lives in Windsor with his wife, Correy, his son, Mario,
and a daughter expected to join the family in August.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
APHIEL FERNANDEZ
Aphiel Fernandez was born and raised in Washington Heights to Dominican
parents. After graduating from high school, he went on to work as a cabinet
maker at JD Custom Carpentry on Jerome Avenue in the Bronx. As a carpenter,
Mr. Fernandez began his apprenticeship training with the carpenters union in
April 2008.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
Harold Burke’s service to his nation and fellow veterans continued when he
joined the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 1895, in Schenectady in 1979. He still
maintains his Legacy Gold Membership, and throughout the years, has held
many positions including Post Commander. SGT Burke received All State Post
Commander honors and moved on to become District Commander, where he
received All State District Commander and All American District Commander
honors.
In June 2003, SGT Burke was elected State Commander. He served as Department
Quartermaster in that position from 2005-09. Later, he was elected Department
Judge Advocate from 2013-16. He was subsequently appointed Department
Adjutant, and continues to serve in that capacity.
During the 114th National Convention of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, SGT
Burke was elected National Judge Advocate General. He is also a member of the
Disabled American Veterans, the American Legion, and the Elks.
SGT Burke has been married to his wife, Carol, for 46 years and they have two
sons, Harold III and Andrew, and two grandchildren, Abigail, who is 2 years old
and Theodore, who is 13 months old.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
JASON A. KAATZ
Jason A. Kaatz began his service in the United States Army in March 1964. He
served in Vietnam from November 1964 to December 1967 with the 161st Assault
Helicopter Company, 52nd and 14th Combat Aviation Battalions, 17th Aviation
Group, 1st Aviation Brigade. While in Vietnam, Mr. Kaatz was assigned to work
with the Republic of South Korea Tiger Division, South Vietnamese 22nd ARVN
Division, 5th Special Forces and Special Operations Group in Bhin Dhin Province,
operating out of Lane Army Air Field.
Mr. Kaatz was honorably discharged from the Army in March 1970. During his
service, he received numerous awards, including the Vietnam Service Medal
with three battle stars, National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam
Campaign Medal with 50 Devices, Aircraft Crewman Badge, Good Conduct Medal,
Meritorious Service Award, and Valorous Unit Citations.
Mr. Kaatz’s service to his country and community did not end when he left the
Army, as he continued to serve with numerous veterans organizations. He served
on the National Executive Committee of the Jewish War Veterans of the United
States and was Queens County Commander and Commander of the Bell-Oak Post
648.
In his private life, Mr. Kaatz has worked as a security consultant and investigator.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
KRISTYN BRIEZ REED
Director of the Mt. Vernon Veterans Services Agency, Kristyn Briez Reed comes
from a family with generations of proud military service, including her father,
sisters, grandfathers, uncles, and cousins. A lifelong Mt. Vernon resident, she
enlisted in the United States Air Force (USAF) as a Communication Navigation
Mission Systems Specialist after graduating from Mt. Vernon High School.
While stationed at Hurlburt Field Air Force Base, Ms. Reed was responsible
for troubleshooting and repair of RADAR, sensor, radio, navigation equipment,
and other general aircraft maintenance tasks aboard AC130-U gunships. She
deployed to Balad, Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and earned
numerous awards, letters of appreciation, a Commendation Medal, a NYS
Medal for Merit, and NYS Conspicuous Service Star. Upon separation from the
Air Force, Ms. Reed earned degrees in Avionics Systems Technology, Industrial
Management, Criminal Justice and Social Work, and an M.A. in Business and
Workplace Education from New York University.
Director Reed enjoys assisting veterans to obtain the benefits that their service
to this country has earned. She serves on the Board of Directors of the Barbara
Giordano Foundation, Inc. for women veterans, an operating foundation that
offers no-cost healing and wellness programs to women veterans.
Director Reed resides in Mt. Vernon with her husband, fellow USAF veteran,
Larry, and their two children, Ev Loren and Lenox.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
One of Mr. Hill’s favorite memories is serving the United States in Puerto
Rico, Japan and many other countries.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
Having successfully completed the Army Flight Aptitude test, Mr. Morley was
sworn in to the Army, completed his training, and was appointed Warrant
Officer 1st Class (WO1), receiving his orders for Vietnam.
On August 24, 1970, while preparing for a routine mission, WO1 Morley was
advised of a downed scout aircraft. Upon arriving, he observed the downed
helicopter on its side. After three attempts to hover down through the
canopy unsuccessfully, a medevac Huey was summoned. While hovering
and attempting to extract the survivors, enemy opened heavy fire on the
helicopters; the crew chief of the downed helicopter began to return fire, as
did WO1 Morley’s crew chief. Having sustained 43 bullet hits, the hovering
medevac aircraft was able to move ½ mile away to a clearing and make a
successful forced landing. WO1 Morley landed beside them, transferred and
airlifted the dead and wounded directly to Long Binh Army Evac Hospital.
Voluntarily returning to the crashsite, WO1 Morley coordinated a second
medevac aircraft and the removal of the remaining crew survivors.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
SABRINA LACY
Suffolk County VFW Commander Sabrina Lacy joined the United States Army
in 1985 as a young woman. She served one year in Korea with the 2nd Infantry
Division, approximately 15 miles from the DMZ area, and in the field in a variety of
hospitals from Walter Reed, Manhattan VA, Brooklyn VA and West Point. In total,
she served our country for 20 years, earning the rank of Sergeant.
After being honorably discharged, SGT Lacy joined the U.S. Army Reserves,
earned an Associate’s Degree in Management Information, her LPN in 1992, a
BA in Organizational Management, and worked as an LPN in various hospitals
throughout Long Island. Following 9/11, SGT Lacy worked as a nurse at Bellevue
Hospital, where she cared for the injured from Ground Zero. She was called up
for active duty to serve in Operation New Dawn in Germany at Wiesbaden and
Landstuhl Hospitals, and tended to injured soldiers and their families during the
War in Afghanistan and the Iraq War. After this tour ended, she completed her
Master’s degree in Leadership.
SGT Lacy received the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal,
Army Reserve Components-Achievement Medal (3rd Award), National Defense
Service Medal (2nd Award), Armed Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon (2nd Award)
and the Armed Forces Reserve Medal (5th Award).
Commander Lacy is the first black woman to hold this post at the Suffolk County
VFW. For the past 10 years, she has served as a volunteer and Commander of the
Brentwood VFW. She is a member of the VFW, VFW Auxiliary, American Legion,
AMVETS, Blue Star Moms of America and the Disabled American Veterans. She
is also the Co-Host of Veterans News on Channel 20, and the Minister of the
“Lift A Hand to a Veteran Ministry,” as well as a Chaplain and instructor with the
New York State Chaplain Task Force, and Chair of the Suffolk County Women’s
Advisory Commission.
Commander Lacy is the proud mother of two daughters and one grandson.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
Mr. Rosenzweig enlisted in the Army in November 1966, and while in basic training
in Ft. Lewis, Washington, he received his draft notice. His service included two
back-to-back tours in Vietnam with the Military Advisory Command-Vietnam
(MACV) and the Republic of Korea’s fearsome “Tiger Division.” Mr. Rosenzweig
was wounded in action in August 1968 and recovered consciousness in a military
hospital in Japan. He spent the next eight months recuperating at St. Albans
Naval Hospital on Long Island. PFC Rosenzweig received the Purple Heart medal
for his injuries.
PFC Rosenzweig and his wife, Mary Ann, have three children, Henry Jr., Joel and
Mary, and four grandchildren, Riley, Sadie, Anna and Jesse, Jr.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
JORGE L. ROSARIO
Jorge L. Rosario enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1995, later achieving the rank of
Sergeant as a military policeman. He was commissioned as an Officer in the
JAG Corp in 2003, and retired in 2017 with the rank of Major, with 22 years of
both reserve and active duty status.
On September 11, 2001, Major Rosario was sent to secure sites in New York
City. He is a veteran of Operation Noble Eagle 2002 with the 306th Military
Police. He was a Captain with the 10th Mountain Infantry Division in the area
of International Operational Law during Operation Enduring Freedom in
Afghanistan.
Major Rosario also serves as a volunteer basketball coach for St. Patrick’s CYO
and volunteer baseball coach. He recently started a not-for-profit, Wyandanch-
Wheatley Heights Baseball & Sports Initiatives, to provide low-income children
with opportunities to play sports and avoid negative distractions.
Major Rosario is the new Commander of VFW Post 2912. He has held events
such as the Veteran’s Job and Resource Fair, and coordinates with attorneys
providing free or low-cost representation to veterans. He works with Rothco
and its employees, helping to manage the thousands of dollars being donated
to the veterans homeless shelter and an outreach center, which provides many
community services, including children’s summer camps and a place for the
homeless to eat, sleep and stay out of the winter cold.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
Rex E168 served from May 14, 2002 to April 6, 2012. During this time, he was stationed
out of Camp Pendleton, CA. In total, Rex performed over 11,575 hours of military work.
During his time at Camp Pendleton, he searched over 6,220 vehicles in random anti-
terrorism searches and 7,800 barracks rooms during 260 official command authorized
health and comfort inspections.
Together, CPL Leavey and Rex served two tours in Iraq – Fallujah in 2005 and Ramadi
in 2006. While there and throughout his service, Rex served honorably as a patrol and
explosive-hunting dog. He was often in harm’s way, getting caught in firefights and
mortar attacks. Toward the end of their second tour together, CPL Leavey and Rex were
both injured when insurgents who were watching them from rooftops as they patrolled
the area detonated an IED as they walked by. CPL Leavey returned stateside with Rex to
complete physical therapy. She received a Purple Heart and other combat medals for her
service.
While undergoing physical therapy, CPL Leavey helped train fellow dog handlers for
future deployment. She was discharged in December 2007, but was unable to take
Rex home with her. Rex was prohibited from further combat tours, but was assigned
several times to assist the Secret Service, protecting the President of the United States,
Vice President of the United States, and member of the U.N. General Assembly. Rex’s
enthusiasm, initiative and loyal devotion were valued greatly.
As Rex’s service came to a close, he was deemed “not adoptable.” After much effort,
CPL Leavey was able to get Rex back, and he spent the last 8 months of his life with his
beloved handler.
CPL Leavey continued to handle K9s after her discharge, working closely with a dog
named Patriot in New York City, who has since been retired and lives with her and her
two cats. This hero currently works as a veterinary technician and brand ambassador
for Royal Canin. The story of CPL Leavey and Rex was told in the 2017 film Megan Leavey,
starring Kate Mara. CPL Leavey’s service and love of animals is a source of inspiration
for us all.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
In 1980, Mr. Thompson joined the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United
States at Proctor-Hopson Post #1896 in Jamaica, became a life member the
following year, and was elected Post Commander from 1983 to 1985. Each
year, he received the high honor of “All State Post Commander.” Currently,
Mr. Thompson serves as Vice President of the Post’s Memorial Association,
and since 1985, he has held the office of Post Quartermaster.
“Big Ben” would like to be known as a comrade who is honored to serve his
fellow veterans and his community.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
While overseas, Corporal O’Doherty was assigned to the Third U.S. Army as a
Corporal squad leader and also drove a machine gun jeep. Corporal O’Doherty
served under General George S. Patton’s command from the beaches of
Normandy to Czechoslovakia and received five Bronze Stars for participating
in the campaigns and battles of Normandy, Northern France, Ardennes, the
Rhineland and Central Europe.
After the War, Corporal O’Doherty graduated from Sampson College and the
American Institute of Banking and began a career in governmental and corporate
finance marketing. In 1968, Corporal O’Doherty, along with his wife, Joanne, and
others, bought the Suffolk County News, a 100-year-old weekly newspaper with
a circulation of 10,000 readers. Corporal O’Doherty set up a newspaper archival
department and, along with the Sayville Public Library, developed a microfilm
section for the newspaper for reference and research purposes. These records
are still presently available on microfilm at the Sayville Public Library.
In 1972, Corporal O’Doherty was elected to the New York State Legislature,
representing the people of Suffolk County’s Fifth Assembly District. He has
served on the Board of Dowling College, as a trustee of Long Island Health and
Hospital Planning, the Boy Scouts of America, and as Director of the South Shore
Boys Club. He is a member of the Islip Town Planning Board, the American
Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars.
Corporal O’Doherty resides in Sayville, Long Island and is the father of two
children and one grandchild.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
LAWRENCE C. PARRY
(POSTHUMOUSLY)
Lawrence “Larry” C. Parry of Baldwinsville was born and raised in Syracuse. He
worked in farming before bravely enlisting in the United States Army in December
1939 at the age of 19. From Syracuse, he was sent to Fort Armstrong in Honolulu,
Oahu for basic training and became skilled as an Army motor mechanic. Mr.
Parry served from 1939 to 1942 and was honorably discharged with the rank of
Technician Fourth Grade.
Sgt. Parry is a Pearl Harbor survivor. On December 7, 1941, he was playing
football with some of his comrades when he looked to the sky and saw waves
of Japanese planes overhead. Sgt. Parry vividly remembers seeing the death
and destruction that would follow, as several U.S. battleships were destroyed
during the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor. For his noble service, Sgt. Parry was
awarded the American Defense Service Medal w/Bronze Star, the Asiatic-Pacific
Campaign Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal.
After his faithful discharge in December 1942, Sgt. Parry returned home to
Syracuse, got married in 1944, and had two children, Susan and Frederick.
Frederick also served in the military and earned the Purple Heart. Sgt. Parry
continued to work as a mechanic in different Syracuse-area auto shops and
always shared a zest for life with others.
Sgt. Parry has returned to Pearl Harbor multiple times to pay tribute to history.
In 2016, he traveled to Hawaii to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the
attacks on Pearl Harbor. A year later, on December 7, 2017, he was one of six
WWII veterans who went to Washington, D.C. to be honored by President Donald
Trump at a White House ceremony that proclaimed “National Pearl Harbor
Remembrance Day.”
Sgt. Parry is a patriot who has served his country with honor and distinction and
has contributed immensely to his Central New York community.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
LAQUASIA NUNEZ
United States Army Intelligence Officer, 1st Lieutenant Laquasia Nunez was
born and raised in Bushwick, Brooklyn.
A graduate of P.S. 299K, and Salutatorian of P.S. 299K, Lt. Nunez learned early to
work hard and work honestly. These became her guiding principles. She went on
to become an honors student at Halsey Middle School 296, before attending Deer
Park High School on Long Island, graduating in June 2008 as an accomplished
athlete and honor roll scholar. At only age 16, Lt. Nunez was accepted at the
University at Hartford. Before entering her junior year, she took an academic
break and enlisted in the United States Army National Guard. The Army life,
and its mission and values, quickly took hold. Serving her nation and defending
freedom is her calling.
Within three years, Lt. Nunez acquired two Military Occupational Specialties
(MOS), Logistics Specialist (92A), and Avionics and Survivability Equipment
Repairer (94R). With these skills, she was selected to serve on a Joint Task Force
in New York State. While active, and a full-time student, she was called upon to
serve the people of New York in response to Hurricane Sandy.
In 2014, Lt. Nunez earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the City
University of New York. She immediately transferred to active duty and departed
for training as an Army Military Intelligence Officer. Upon completion, she
deployed to Afghanistan.
Lt. Nunez returned from her Afghanistan deployment to earn a Master’s degree
in Clinical Psychology from Grand Canyon University. She is on track to graduate
in May 2019 and aspires to make a difference in the lives of soldiers and future
patients.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
MARIO BUONPANE
(POSTHUMOUSLY)
Mr. Mario Buonpane was a tireless advocate for fellow veterans who will forever
be remembered as a pillar in the Huntington community. He taught all he came
into contact with the meaning of hard work, trust and honor. Drafted into the
United States Army, Mr. Buonpane served as a Technical Specialist with the
first mobile guided missile crew that helped protect Western Europe during the
Korean War.
Locally, Mr. Buonpane joined American Legion Post 694 in Northport in 1978 and
served in several leadership positions, including Post Commander and on the
Board of Directors. During this service, he led the restoration of the Northport VA
Hospital Golf Course. Funds generated from the Course help wounded veterans
with their medical expenses.
Personally, Mr. Buonpane successfully trained to run and complete the Great
Cow Harbor 10 kilometer race and the New York City Marathon.
While his dedication to his community is inspiring, his commitment to his family
is his true legacy. He and his wife of 58 years, Beatrice, are the parents of Karen,
Nancy and Mark, and at the time of his passing, two grandchildren.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
PETER J. GLENNON
Major Peter J. Glennon served in the U.S. Air Force and New York Air National
Guard for more than 24 years, retiring in May 2015. Known as a “mustang” in
military parlance, Major Glennon first enlisted in 1991 at the age of 17, which
required his father’s permission and signature, and later served as an officer
after earning a commission in 2000. Beginning as an Avionics Systems Technician,
Major Glennon held a variety of positions during his service, including Squadron
Commander, Operations Group Executive Officer and JAG Officer. Major Glennon
earned his associate’s and bachelor’s degrees, and then graduated from law
school, all while serving in the military.
Major Glennon received numerous recognitions, awards, and medals during his
service, including two Meritorious Service Medals, three Air Force Commendation
Medals, and several Air Force Achievement Medals.
Although retired from military service, Major Glennon continues serving his
community in a variety of capacities, with a focus on supporting veterans. Most
notably, he is a co-founder and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Honor
Flight Rochester, Inc., which has flown more than 2,800 veterans to Washington
D.C. over the past 10 years.
Major Glennon has spoken at numerous events and schools, including the 55th
Senate District’s “Take a Veteran to School” program, where he talks about Honor
Flight and military service in order to educate today’s youth about the sacrifice of
our military members. He also is a proud member of the Pittsford Rayson-Miller
American Legion Post #899, serves as a vice president of the Rochester Rotary
Club, and is a member the St. Louis Council Knights of Columbus in Pittsford.
Major Glennon is the principal of The Glennon Law Firm, P.C. and lives in Pittsford
with his wife, Kimberly, and their four children.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
LEONARD B. CONNELLY
Leonard Connelly began a storied life of service to his country and his community
by enlisting in the United States Navy in March 1945, shortly after he graduated
from East Aurora High School. He trained at Boot Camp Sampson and attended
a 16-week Service School at Great Lakes Naval Training Center. Mr. Connelly
served aboard DMS 23, a minesweeper, in the Atlantic during World War II, and
was honorably discharged in 1947 as a Seaman First Class-Gunners Mate.
After his Navy service, Mr. Connelly attended the University at Buffalo, graduating
in 1953 with a degree in accounting. He worked at Sylvania in Buffalo before
being transferred to the Sylvania plant in Arcade, New York, which later became
Motorola. During his 35-year career, Mr. Connelly served as assistant plant
manager, material control manager and production control manager.
Mr. Connelly has selflessly served the Arcade community in many positions,
including: Commander and Trustee of Arcade VFW Post #374; a member of
American Legion Post #1720 in Bliss; Secretary of Arcade Overseas Veteran’s
Club; Supervisor of the Town of Arcade; President of the Arcade Chamber of
Commerce; and Chairman of the Catholic Charities Drive for 25 years. He is also
an active member of his church and numerous community organizations.
In addition, Mr. Connelly has been a member of the Arcade Fire Department for
over 50 years. He was named Fire Person of the Year in 1998 and continues to
serve as a member of the Fire Police, responding to most of the Department’s
calls.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
BOB MURPHY
Bob Murphy has been a lifelong New York resident. His commitment to improving
the lives of others has reached across the spectrum, serving his community and
his country for more than 40 years. Born in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, Mr. Murphy
attended St. Michael’s grammar school and the former Alexander Hamilton High
School.
After high school, Mr. Murphy spent a year as an architectural draftsman before
volunteering for the United States Air Force at age 19 in 1966. He went on to boot
camp and additional specialized training in Texas, where he became an aviation
mechanic, trained to work on F101 and B57 aircraft. He served at bases across
the world, including in Westhampton, New York; Buzzard’s Bay, Massachusetts;
Grand Forks, North Dakota; Florida and Iceland. He ultimately attained the rank
of Staff Sergeant and served as a flight line chief before leaving the service in
1970.
After the Air Force, Mr. Murphy attended Farmingdale State and Brooklyn
College, and ultimately graduated from the College of Insurance. He went to
work for the Empire Insurance Group, where he rose through the ranks and
became Vice President of Claims.
While at Empire Insurance, he met his wife, Sally, and they married in 1983.
Together they share four boys – Jason, who graduated from Fordham University
and recently married; Christopher, who graduated from Hunter College; Michael,
who granted from Baruch College; and Timothy, who is currently attending
LaGuardia Community College.
Mr. Murphy has been a long-time community volunteer. Since 2003, he has
served as President of NYICYP, a youth sports program in Queens. NYICYP has
programs in baseball, teeball, softball, and football. He has worked to involve
students from St. John’s Prep, PS 101, PS 85, and other schools in the league.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
In the spirit of giving back to her country, Ms. Ranocchia has dedicated her
time to volunteering with numerous veterans organizations. She has been a
member of the American Legion since 1998, served as a Commander of Kings
Highway Post #1358 and as Commander of Amity Post #791; she volunteered
for Memorial Day Parade organization and assisted at the Brooklyn VA Hospital.
Ms. Ranocchia was instrumental in organizing the community’s clothing/recycle
program for Vietnam Veterans of America, Thomas P Coughlin Memorial Chapter
72 in Brooklyn.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
RUSSEL C. FIELDING
Russel C. Fielding serves as a shining example of America’s Greatest Generation,
having served his country and the cause of freedom in not one, but two wars.
Mr. Fielding first served as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Army’s 222nd
Infantry Regiment from June 1944 to September 1946, during World War II, and
again as a 1st Lieutenant from April 1951 to July 1952, during the Korean Conflict.
While assigned to the 42nd Infantry’s Rainbow Division during World War II, Lt.
Fielding took part in several campaigns and was the proud recipient of numerous
decorations, including the Silver Star, a Bronze Star, a Combat Infantry Badge
and a Presidential Unit Citation. On January 25, 1945, he sustained wounds as
a result of a firefight with enemy German forces at his command post, for which
he was awarded a Purple Heart. In the midst of this incursion and the ensuing
battle that took the lives of several of his comrades, Lt. Fielding sheltered and
eventually evacuated a number of wounded enemy soldiers brought by a German
medic to his command post under the cover of a Red Cross flag.
After arriving at the notorious Dachau concentration camp on the day it was
liberated from German forces, Lt. Fielding witnessed firsthand some of the worst
atrocities of the War, and carries those memories to this day. He also witnessed
eventual justice when he attended the International War Tribunal at Nuremburg
following the end of WWII.
Upon his discharge from the Army, Lt. Fielding completed his education and
earned a degree from the University of Illinois. Remaining with the U.S. Army
Reserve, he was called back to active duty during the Korean Conflict, where he
served in a noncombat role in Korea and Japan.
Lt. Fielding had a 39-year career with the Rome Daily Sentinel, retiring in 1985. He
and his wife, Darlene, have two children and several grandchildren.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
After retiring from military service, Dr. Brown served her community working with
Wells Fargo Security in a homeless shelter in the Fort Green section of Brooklyn.
She has also worked for the Immigration and Naturalization Service, becoming its
youngest supervisor. Dr. Brown later had a career with the U.S. Postal Service.
After just two months of volunteering as a tutor at the Brownsville Heritage House
Afterschool Program, Dr. Brown was appointed Program Director. She also became
a member of Community School Board 23 and ensured that I.S. 392 became the first
Gifted & Talented JHS in Brownsville.
Dr. Brown’s dedication to community service and her compassion for helping others
stretches beyond Brownsville. As a member of St. Paul, City of Light Ministry, she
spearheaded the Community Outreach Ministry, giving back-to-school supplies to
area children. For nine years, she was Chair of the Community Advisory Board of
the East New York Diagnostic & Treatment Center.
When Dr. Brown answered the calling placed on her life from God, she pursued
her educational career at Community Bible Institute & Seminary and travelled as a
missionary to Africa, India, and Trinidad, conducting seminars and workshops and
teaching biblical principles. In 2008, she was ordained as a Minister and continues
to serve the poor and those in need.
Retiring after 30 years of government service, Dr. Brown has returned to the
workforce, serving families and single women in homeless shelters and running
her own childcare and tutoring service business.
In 2015, Dr. Brown received her Doctorate in Christian Education. She is the author
of a book entitled, Called to Teach All Nations. She is the proud mother of two
daughters, and the grandmother to one grandson.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
SYLINTHIA BURGES
Sylinthia Burges was born in Fayetteville, North Carolina. The daughter of a
Vietnam veteran and niece to six uncles who also served in the military, she
comes from a strong family tradition. This disciplined, regimented childhood
influenced Ms. Burges into her young adult life. She joined the Army in 1984,
after graduating from high school in Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Going on to
further her education, Ms. Burges graduated with her B.S. in Psychology from
Fayetteville State University.
Ms. Burges worked in a military law office during a deployment to South Korea.
In her last year of service, she married a military officer who served as a staff
sergeant and Airborne Ranger in both Iraq and Afghanistan.
In April 2015, Ms. Burges began working with the Nassau County Veterans Service
Agency and is an Accredited Veteran Service Officer and advocate for veterans.
She is the first woman ever hired there to help former military personnel grapple
with health, housing, family, financial and other issues. She has seen hundreds
of veterans, many who have slept on trains, in cars and vacant buildings and who
struggle with homelessness.
Ms. Burges is also a Mental Health Case Manager with Inman Home Health,
where she advocates for high-risk children, adults, and elderly persons afflicted
by mental and substance abuse disorders.
Finding an outlet for her passion for helping women veterans and changing
the stigma of a female veteran being invisible, she established “Women in
the Military,” by recruiting a group of dedicated women veteran volunteers. A
growing nonprofit organization that not only connects female veterans with
crucial resources, but with each other, Ms. Burges’ dream is to provide all female
veterans in need with a wide range of assistance and resources.
Ms. Burges exemplifies the Army’s seven core values, which encompass what
she is all about: loyalty, duty, respect, personal courage, honor, integrity and
selfless service.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
In 1965, MGySgt Butts enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and was sent to the
Republic of Vietnam, where he served until 1969. After being promoted to
gunnery sergeant meritoriously, he was assigned to Marine Corps Air Station
Iwakuni, Japan, where he served as the non-commissioned officer in charge.
In 1977, he served as the Fleet Marine Force Pacific Engineer Operations Chief
until he was ordered to New Orleans, Louisiana. There, he was promoted to his
present rank and served as the Base Operations Chief. In 1986, MGySgt Butts
was transferred to the Marine Corps Engineer School, where served until his
retirement as the School Academic Chief.
MGySgt Butts’ decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, two Navy
Commendation Medals with Combat V, Navy Achievement Medal, Combat Action
Ribbon, Meritorious Unit Citation Ribbon, seven Good Conduct Medals, National
Defense Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Overseas Ribbon,
Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of
Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, and Unit Cross of Gallantry.
MGySgt Butts has enjoyed serving American Legion Post 1107 in his retirement,
and has held many offices, including that of Commander, numerous times. He
has been actively involved in the Union Springs community throughout his entire
career and retirement. He is most proud of erecting monuments engraved with
local service members’ names dating back to the Spanish-American War.
MGySgt Butts and his wife, Barbara, have three children, Stefanie, Edward and
Michael, eight grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
EDWARD FIELD
Air Force First Lieutenant Edward Field was born in Brooklyn and attended New
York University. He served in World War II as a navigator in heavy bombers and
flew 27 missions on a B-17 in 1945.
While based in England on his third mission over Berlin, Lt. Field’s plane was
damaged by flak. Down to two engines, the bomber headed back to England but
ran out of fuel and crash-landed in the North Sea. The crew evacuated to two
rubber rafts that broke away, leaving Lt. Field standing on the wing of the still-
floating plane. A strong swimmer, he made it to one of the rafts and clung to its
side in the icy water. His fellow airman, Jack Coleman Cook, died by giving up
his place in the lifeboat for Field. Eventually, Lt. Field was rescued by an English
ship, but Field says that he often thinks about the man who gave his life to save
his.
After a period of recovery, and when the War was ended, Lt. Field went to Paris
and became a poet. He later moved back to New York City where he lived with his
partner, Neil Derrick, for 58 years until Derrick’s recent death.
A prolific and renowned writer, Field has written nine books of poetry, his memoirs,
a travel book, and the narration for an Academy Award-winning documentary,
To Be Alive (1965).
Lt. Field is the recipient of numerous awards, including the Lamont Award from
the Academy of American Poets, the Shelley Memorial Award from the Poetry
Society of America, the Prix de Rome from the American Academy of Arts &
Letters, and the Lambda Literary Award.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
SYDNEY COLE
Sydney Cole, born in New York City and raised in Buffalo, epitomizes the strength,
bravery and character of a true American hero. The World War II veteran, who
served with honor and distinction for both Canadian and American forces, will
forever be remembered in the annals of history for his actions, courage and calm
under fire.
First Lieutenant Cole flew an artillery observation plane for the 776th Field
Artillery Battalion and was actively involved in the Battle of the Bulge. Lt.
Cole’s life would dramatically change after the early morning hours of his 126th
mission. On January 2, 1945, his plane encountered heavy anti-aircraft fire and
was shot down.
Before jumping from the damaged plane, he risked his own life to help his co-pilot
evacuate the aircraft first. While parachuting, Lt. Cole was wounded multiple
times by enemy gunfire during his descent and landed behind German lines.
Captured by retreating enemy troops and taken to a German prisoner of war
camp, Lt. Cole was subjected to life-threatening abuse and malnourishment for
over a year. Despite his ill-treated wounds and diminished body weight of only
95 pounds, Lt. Cole was instrumental in maintaining high levels of discipline and
morale among his fellow POWs, and served as an inspiration and example of
American military conduct while held captive.
Lt. Cole’s heroism at the risk of his own life, his dedication to the principles of
freedom and his exemplary devotion to duty and country, distinguish him among
our greatest citizens in the State of New York and United State of America.
Rising to the rank of Captain, Mr. Cole was discharged from the U.S. Army just
after Christmas 1945. He returned to Buffalo where he married his wife, Sybil
Richard. The couple had a son, Richard.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
Mr. Colon valiantly served in the Field Artillery Battalion, Hanau, Germany,
Field Artillery Group, Vicenza, Italy, and the 563rd Military Police Company.
As a Senior Non Commissioned Officer, he served as Secretary, Combined
Staff for General John A. Wickham, and Commander in Chief of all Allied
Forces in South Korea. Later, Sgt. Colon was assigned to the United States
Army Instructor Group and the United States Army Recruiting Command
until he retired as a Sergeant First Class in May 1994.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
THOMAS F. HIGGINS
As a former United States Marine corporal, a Buffalo Police Officer, and later
the Sheriff of Erie County, Sheriff Thomas F. Higgins has committed his life
to serving his country and his community with passion and dedication.
Born in 1930, Mr. Higgins began his tour of duty with the U.S. Marine Corps at
age 21, serving in the 1st Marine Division, 11th Regiment for three years. He
was honorably discharged in 1954. Once back in the United States, Mr. Higgins
earned degrees from Erie Community College, Buffalo State College, and the
University at Buffalo.
Mr. Higgins was elected Sheriff of Erie County in 1985, serving in that role
for 12 years. As Sheriff, he established the Erie County Law Enforcement
Foundation, and became the chair of the New York State Sheriffs’ Association
Scholarship Fund.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
JOSEPH MONDELLO
Born in 1955 in the Bronx, Joseph Mondello enlisted into the USAF in 1975, trained
as a 30750 Telecomm Specialist, and served two years in Japan and one year in
the Pentagon. He has given over 20 years of service to the Bronx community,
his post, the Department of New York American Legion, and to all veterans. Mr.
Mondello has held the positions of Vice-Commander, Post Commander, County
Commander and various committee positions at the post, county, district and
department levels.
With a background in public relations, Mr. Mondello has produced a cable TV show
called “Veteran Focus,” a bi-monthly, 30-minute program featuring American
legionnaires from the county and beyond, discussing programs and services for
veterans.
Mr. Mondello also educates local school students with a “History of our Flag”
program he created. Other schools in the community learned of the program
and have requested his assistance in conducting a similar presentation in their
districts. In one instance, Mr. Mondello’s program led to a joint project with the
county POW/MIA to identify and recognize a local teacher’s grandfather who was
shot down over China during WWII and listed as MIA. A plaque was presented and
attached to the flagpole at PS14, and the students now conduct an annual POW/
MIA ceremony honoring his service.
Mr. Mondello is responsible for making his Post the 5th chapter of the “Legion
Riders” in New York State and for raising more than $5,000 for the Legacy
Scholarship Fund. The Legion Riders ride to Ground Zero, the Viet Nam Memorial
in lower Manhattan, with Rolling Thunder and perform funeral escorts.
In 2017, Mr. Mondello was named “Legionnaire of the Year” by the Department of
New York American Legion, a nomination from over 100,000 members.
Mr. Mondello is married to Michelle, and together they have two sons, Anthony
and Joseph.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
ELANA DUFFY
After graduating from Cornell University with undergraduate and graduate
degrees in engineering, Elana Duffy worked in civil and logic engineering
briefly before deciding to enlist for active duty Army service in 2003. As both
an interrogator and counterintelligence agent, she conducted multiple hostage
rescue and strategic level intelligence operations, and eventually assessed into
an elite clandestine unit. Unfortunately, her career was cut short when she was
injured in a roadside bomb attack in Iraq. Ms. Duffy was awarded the Purple
Heart medal and returned to her home in New York City upon medical retirement
in December 2012.
Upon returning to New York, Ms. Duffy volunteered for local, national and
international veterans’ organizations including Team Rubicon, Team Red White
and Blue, Mission Continues, NYC Veterans Alliance, Sierra Club Military
Outdoors and multiple others. She also assisted in the creation of a New York
City-based non-profit charity to raise funds for Hurricane Sandy and other
disaster relief efforts. In addition, she took on multiple organizational leadership
roles (several of which she still maintains) and co-founded a successful content
creation and consulting firm, www.presenttensellc.com.
Intent on solving the problems of veteran reintegration and helping those suffering
with depression, suicide and homelessness, in 2015, Ms. Duffy rededicated herself
to engineering, founding the electronic platform www.pathfinder.vet. This online
community helps veterans and families discover and connect to the best resources
in their local communities through crowd-sourced peer reviews and provides
analytic tools to municipalities, organizations and donors looking to increase their
impact on the veteran landscape.
Ms. Duffy is an avid mountain and rock climber, dedicated social change advocate
and the (very important) food provider to two old but exceedingly friendly cats.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
JAMES M. KENNEDY
James M. Kennedy began his service in the United States Army in April
1943. Twenty years old and married, with a newborn daughter, he was initially
assigned to the Boston Port Battalion, but joined the 101st Airborne in October
1943. Mr. Kennedy was injured during a jump into German-held territory during
D-Day preparations and was reassigned to the 94th Infantry Division. There, he
was one of “Patton’s Golden Nuggets,” serving as a forward scout and demolition
expert for the remainder of WWII.
Mr. Kennedy fought 195 consecutive days of combat, including the Battle of
the Bulge. He was personally responsible for destroying dozens of German
pillboxes and “dragon’s teeth” on the Siegfried Line, allowing General Patton’s
tanks to break through and bring the war in Europe to an end. He served in the
occupational forces until he returned to the U.S. as a Private First Class on his
23rd birthday, January 9, 1946.
Private Kennedy was awarded two Purple Hearts, the Bronze Star, European-
American Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, Combat Infantry Medal, Marksman
Medal, and the Army of Occupation Ribbon. In 2001, the U.S. and Czech Republic
each awarded him a “Certificate of Recognition for Service During the Cold
War,” and in 2002, the French awarded him “Certificate of Recognition for the
Liberation of France.”
James M. Kennedy served his country with bravery, dignity and honor, but is a
humble man who says he is just one of many who served.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
MARY E. CAVANAGH
Senior Chief Petty Officer Mary E. Cavanagh not only served her country from
1977-2000, but since retiring from the Navy, has devoted the last 18 years
educating future military and academic leaders as the Naval Science Instructor
for the North Rockland High School Navy Junior Reserve Training Corps.
Upon graduating from North Rockland High School in 1976, she enlisted in the
U.S. Navy and commenced active duty in 1977. After completing Cryptologic
Technician Collection “A” school, she reported to Naval Communication Station,
Rota, Spain where she served as a Manual Morse Operator and then as a High
Frequency Direction Finding Net Control Operator. Later, SCPO Cavanagh
reported with the first contingent of women to be permanently assigned to Diego
Garcia, and eventually served as a Senior Analyst/Report Writer.
SCPO Cavanagh’s first assignment at sea was as the Leading Petty Officer and
Senior Mediterranean Analyst, deployed on board the USS Puget Sound in support
of operations following the bombing of the Marine Corps barracks in Beirut.
Among many noteworthy assignments, SCPO Cavanagh has served in the Office
of Naval Intelligence, and her final assignment was as the Non Commissioned
Officer in Charge and Senior Enlisted Advisor at the Cryptologic Services Group,
National Military Joint Intelligence Center at the Pentagon.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
PETER CUTHBERT
Colonel Peter Cuthbert volunteered for the United States Army immediately after
graduating from the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) in 1951. He went on
to serve as a platoon leader for the U.S. Army’s 89th Tank Battalion from June
1952 until March 1953 in Korea, where his unit was responsible for supporting
infantry regiments on the front lines.
COL Cuthbert commanded 25 men, five tanks, a jeep and a trailer, and often
shifted between infantry divisions based on demand. His battalion also spent two
months serving as a support unit for a division of the Turkish Army.
While he remained in an active support leadership role with the military, COL
Cuthbert taught history at Westhampton Beach High School for 30 years. He
coached the basketball, golf and tennis teams, and served as principal of the
summer school education program. COL Cuthbert and his late wife, Nancy, raised
their six children – Mary, Jane, Peter, Bill, Lynne and Lee – in Westhampton
Beach. The couple eventually moved back to East Moriches.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
Mr. Oakes registered at the age of 18 for the U.S. Army, and served for six years as
a Technician 4th Grade with Company B’s 442nd Signal Battalion. He received his
training as a code talker, along with other Akwesasne Mohawks, while stationed
in Louisiana.
During WWII, the Mohawk language was one of 33 Native languages used to send
communications between U.S. forces. The Native American code talkers are
known the world over as having the only unbroken military code in history; these
messages in WWII were never interpreted by the Japanese. In 2008, Congress
passed the Code Talkers Recognition Act to honor every Native American code
talker who served in the United States military during WWI or WWII.
TEC 4 Oakes served as a code talker in the South Pacific, New Guinea and
Philippines theatres during WWII and was awarded the Silver Star for his service.
The Silver Star is the third-highest military combat decoration for gallantry in
action against an enemy of the United States. TEC 4 Oakes served with distinction
and received an honorable discharge on February 15, 1946.
TEC 4 Oakes worked for 30 years as an ironworker in Buffalo, New York and later
for the highway department at the Mohawk territory in Akwesasne, New York
before retiring.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
Ms. Garber’s military adventure began on November 2, 1943 when she and seven
women recruits met at a Cleveland, Ohio railroad station to proceed to Marine
Boot Camp at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Her field training with the other
women recruits was the same that the men received...cleaning rifles, manual of
arms, target practice, obstacle course, guard duty, marching, running with pack
and rifle, scaling cargo nets and calisthenics.
After training, Ms. Garber was assigned to a Signal Corps unit in Washington,
D.C. that used Teletype machines and required secret clearance. She handled
daily reports listing names of wounded, missing in action (MIA), and killed in
action (KIA). On occasion, she and other women were taken to Walter Reed Army
Hospital to help rehabilitate those who lost hands, arms, legs and eyesight. One
day at a service club, she was hit by a ping-pong ball. That was how she met
Morris Garber, and six months later, they were married.
Ms. Garber has been an active member of the Jewish War Veterans Post 655 for
many years.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
ERIC C. WEBER
Colonel Eric C. Weber enlisted in the New York Army National Guard in 1979. For
25 years, he served in various duty assignments from aviation rotary wing test
pilot to battalion and brigade staff positions, to logistics officer at Ground Zero,
New York City in support of the Homeland Defense Mission in 2001.
COL Weber has commanded the more than 900 soldiers of the 369th Brigade
Troops Battalion stationed in New York City, home of the “Harlem Hell Fighters.”
He served in Operation Iraqi Freedom as the Officer in Command & Charge,
Strategic Operation Center, Multi-National Force Baghdad, Iraq, and as 3rd
Stryker Brigade Combat Team 2nd Infantry Division as Combined Task Force
Arrowhead, Deputy Commander (West), Operation Enduring Freedom, Kandahar,
Afghanistan.
He is the recipient of the Legion of Merit and two Bronze Stars, National Defense
Medal (2nd Award), Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal – w/
Campaign Star, Global War on Terror Expeditionary Medal, Armed Force Reverse
Medal – w/Gold Hourglass & M device, the New York Conspicuous Service Star
Service Ribbon, and Defense of Liberty Medal (World Trade Center Device) and
Military Support Medal -1980 Olympics.
COL Weber retried in 2013 with over 33 years of service, of which over 29 years
were active duty. He continues to be committed to his community as a certified
New York State Public High School Association Soccer and Field Official, owner
of First Across Timing Services, LLC, and a member of the Service-Disabled
Veteran-Owned Small Business Program. He is a lifetime member of both the
Sullivan Jones VFW Post 7466 and the Army Aviation Association of American
and Militia Association of New York, and a member of American Legion Post
164.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
DAVID ZAPSKY
David Zapsky is a veteran of Operation Desert Storm, serving in the Air Force
from 1989 to 1996 as a Communications and Information Security Systems
Manager. He was honorably discharged with a final rank of Staff Sergeant.
In 2015, Mr. Zapsky created the Town of Bedford’s Veterans Advisory Committee
to help fellow veterans and their families navigate the government agencies and
organizations that provide services and benefits. With the Veterans Advisory
Committee, Mr. Zapsky ensures both active duty military and veterans receive
the recognition and services to which they are entitled.
Mr. Zapsky works at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York as a Service
Performance Manager. He holds an MA and BS from Iona College, and is pursuing
an MS at Columbia University. Mr. Zapsky currently resides in Bedford with his
wife and twins.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
In 1968, Corporal Matthews began working for the New York Urban League
and Operation Open City as a Fair Housing Director in Queens and Brooklyn.
Eight years later, he was made administrator of the first Energy Conservation/
Weatherization Program in New York City, which was funded by the U.S.
Department of Energy. He trained 10 community groups in weatherization and
energy conservation and set up the Weathco Corporation for The New York Urban
League. In addition, he established Top Glass Window Company to provide the
community with weatherization plans and replacement windows.
Through a contract with the New York Community Development Agency, Corporal
Matthews was named Director of a program that was responsible for the removal
of asbestos from hangers at Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn.
For three years, he served as a distributor for the New York City Summer Lunch
Program.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
SGM Galella went on to serve five years in the Pacific Theater, earning the highest
rank an enlisted man can achieve, Battalion Sergeant Major. He received the
Bronze Star Medal for Meritorious Service and bravery in the Battle of Okinawa,
“the largest amphibious invasion of the Pacific campaign and the last major
campaign of the Pacific War.”
SGM Galella’s service to our country is only equaled by his service to our local
community. A lifelong resident of North Tarrytown, now Sleepy Hollow, SGM
Galella has served in many civic and social capacities, including as a Village
Trustee and as Deputy Mayor, Fire Commissioner for the Village, and as a member
of Pocantico Hook and Ladder Company. He has also served as the Grand Marshal
for the Sleepy Hollow Columbus Day Parade in 2002 and the Sleepy Hollow St.
Patrick’s Day Parade in 2018.
In 1999, SGM Galella petitioned the Village to rename a waterfront park in Sleepy
Hollow to “Horan’s Landing,” in honor of his friend killed in the Pearl Harbor
attack. John J. Horan was the first resident of the Village to be killed in WWII.
An American flag and Mr. Horan’s photo are now proudly displayed at the park.
At 97 years young, SGM Galella remains an active and essential member of the
Sleepy Hollow community and beyond.
SGM Galella’s beloved wife, Leda, passed away in September 2015 after 65 years
of marriage. He has two sons, three grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
Armando Galella is an icon and inspiration to all who meet him.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
WARREN A. THOMPSON
Born on the family farm in Savona, Warren Thompson dreamed of flying airplanes
as a boy and, upon the start of World War II, yearned to fly military planes.
Mr. Thompson graduated from Savona Central School in 1942, enlisted in the
Army, passed the air cadet exam and started his pilot training. On August 30,
1943, he was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Air Corps and
trained as a pilot on B26, Martin Marauders.
The Army needed A20 Douglas light bomber crews for deployment to the
European Theater, so he transferred to the A20s and was assigned to the 647th
Bomb Group in Gosfield, England. On his first mission on May 27, 1944, his plane
was shot down over Amiens, France. He escaped capture and worked with the
local Free French Forces under the assumed name of Roland Fauntain, until his
capture by the German military in St. Just, France on July 20, 1944.
2LT Thompson was a POW in the Paris Prison, Buchenwald Prison, Stalag Luft
3 camp, Nuremburg camp, and was finally liberated at the Mooseburg camp by
General George Patton’s 3rd Army.
Upon honorable discharge on March 10, 1950, he returned to the family farm
in Savona which he successfully grew by acquiring over 20 additional farms
and parcels and which remains a working farm today under his son, Gary, as
Thompson Farms. 2LT Thompson’s work ethic, determination, and honesty are
legendary. For nearly four decades, in addition to farming, he served as rural
postal carrier.
2LT Thompson also gave back to his community in many ways, including as a
Savona school board member and President, Commander of VFW Post 1470,
member of the Bath Planning Board, member and sponsor of the Savona Fire
Department, and President of the Steuben County Veteran’s Memorial.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
ALLEN WANDERLICH
Allen Wanderlich fought in two wars in two uniforms, serving in both WW II and
Korea. He fought in the Battle of Bulge, and then participated in other battles
with the 84th Infantry Division, K Company, also known as the “Railsplitters.”
In one battle, as Mr. Wanderlich and his comrades charged deeper into enemy
territory, a bullet went through his right leg, but he continued on in combat.
After taking Hanover, he helped to liberate both POW and concentration camps.
With about two weeks left before the war ended, German troops opened fire
with machine guns and artillery. Twenty-two of Mr. Wanderlich’s comrades and
his company commander were killed. Using his 60 mm mortar, he was able
to distract the Germans who took cover every time he sent a shell their way,
allowing his riflemen and machine gunners to move forward. The strategic use
of his mortar earned Allen Wanderlich, who was only 19 years old at the time,
a Silver Star. He also earned the Combat Infantry Badge, Bronze Star, Purple
Heart, and numerous other medals during the course of and in recognition of his
service.
In 1949, Mr. Wanderlich enlisted in the Air Force and was assigned to a B-29
bomber squadron as a Radar Specialist, flying missions over North Korea and
serving until 1953. Memories of both wars are never distant.
Mr. Wanderlich lives in Lockport with his wife of 63 years, Maryann. Together,
they raised four children.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
RHEYSER HENRY
Rheyser Henry describes herself as someone who is humble and passionate
about serving her community. The oldest of five, Ms. Henry has always been
family oriented and has exhibited leadership skills at a young age. In 2012, after
graduating from St. Joseph High School, she decided to join the United States
Navy. Ms. Henry did two tours while in service: Operation Iraqi Freedom and
Operation Inherent Resolve.
Ms. Henry is well traveled and has visited many countries, including Israel,
Greece, Dubai, Bahrain, Oman, Turkey and France. In 2017, she decided to leave
the Navy to further her education and return to her Brooklyn community. There,
Ms. Henry enjoys painting abstract art and creating portraits and figure art.
She developed her love for art as a young child, but never imagined her passion
growing into what it is today.
Ms. Henry currently works as an intern for State Senator Kevin Parker, an
opportunity she secured through the non-profit, Opportunity for A Better
Tomorrow. She is actively working on her entrepreneurship goals and is looking
forward to attending Baruch College in Fall 2018.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
ALIRIO ORDUÑA
(POSTHUMOUSLY)
A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Alirio Orduña of Elmhurst was a longtime member
of Community Board 4 and the beloved Commander of the New York Military
Youth Cadets. He passed away on October 30, 2017 at the age of 65.
Born in 1952 and raised in Colombia, Mr. Orduña was 16 when he emigrated to
the United States with his siblings following the death of his parents. He enlisted
in the Marine Corps in 1972, eventually rising to the rank of corporal and earning
numerous medals along the way.
In 2000, CPL Orduña founded the New York Military Youth Cadets, an Elmhurst-
based organization aimed at directing disadvantaged children away from crime
and toward higher education and service to one’s community and country. In
the nearly two decades since, dozens of young cadets either went to college
on full academic scholarships or enlisted in the military. CPL Orduña’s work
with the NYMYC has earned him various honors from the federal, state and city
governments and cultural groups.
CPL Orduña was also one of CB4’s more vocal members. Over the years, he
repeatedly pressed the 110th Precinct and area elected officials to better address
prostitution and illegal dumping in Elmhurst and Corona.
His support for the children of the community and families was unprecedented
and words cannot describe how he has truly impacted the Village of Elmhurst and
beyond. Nothing will ever match his larger-than-life legacy.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
Over the years, Major Heath has proven her unwavering passion for taking
organizations to the next level of success while resolving organizational
deficiencies. She has earned the reputation as a driven executive, undaunted
by challenges or obstacles. Major Heath’s experience, personality, capacity and
judgment always get her the desired results.
Major Heath served as the Head of Human Resources for Forest City Ratner
Companies (FCRC) in Brooklyn. She has also served as Regional HR District
Manager for Rite Aid, and Human Resource Business Partner for the NYC
Department of Education. Major Heath holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human
Services and an MBA in Business Administration. She is also a trained mediator
through the Atlanta Justice Center.
Major Heath has been very actively involved with both community service
projects and community partnerships. She currently serves as the Co-Chair for
Black Veterans for Social Justice (BVSJ), on the Council for the State University
of New York (SUNY) Downstate Medical Center and as a member of the African
American Clergy Elected Officials Coalition (AACEO).
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
RALPH ESPOSITO
Ralph Esposito of Floral Park Crest exemplifies what it means to be a true
American patriot. Mr. Esposito enlisted in the United States Navy in 1961 and
served on the USS Ticonderoga CVA 14, Division V4. He has remained an active
member of the American Legion since his honorable discharge in 1964, making
him a 53-year member. He has also been a member of the VFW for 44 years.
Mr. Esposito has received the “Kind Person Who Cares” Award from the United
States Marine Corps for his work in the renowned Toys for Tots donation drive,
the “Humanitarian of the Year” Award by the Thomas A. Bennet Foundation,
and the “Honorable Community Service” Award from the Gateway Christian
Center.
As Director of the Nassau County Veterans Service Agency (VSA), Mr. Esposito
works tirelessly to empower, educate and provide necessary services to
veterans within and beyond the boundaries of Nassau County. He goes above
and beyond to ensure that every veteran who comes to the VSA seeking
guidance receives the benefits they deserve, and has singlehandedly been a
reliable resource to countless veterans and their loved ones during their time
of need.
Mr. Esposito has been married to his wife, Joanna, for 46 years and is the proud
father of two sons, John and Michael, and four grandchildren.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
PATRICK J. CUNNINGHAM
(POSTHUMOUSLY)
Col. Patrick J. Cunningham served in the U.S. Army for three decades. His
distinguished military career encompassed serving in the Vietnam War, as well
as several positions at the Pentagon, including overseeing the Army Budget,
assignments at Ft. Bragg, Ft. Bliss, Ft. Leavenworth, and across the globe, from
Korea to Worms, Germany and Orleans, France. Col. Cunningham received
numerous awards for his military service, including the Legion of Merit, Bronze
Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal and Army Commendation Medal.
Col. Cunningham passed away in March 2017 from a respiratory illness, due in
part to his exposure to Agent Orange during the Vietnam War. He is survived by
five children and 14 grandchildren. He dedicated his entire life to the service of
his country and family, offering the best of himself, the gift of his example, and a
legacy of service and integrity.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
Mr. Brady and Mr. La Duc both live in Carthage, and in 2015, traveled as part of
a Syracuse Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. to visit the war memorials at the
nation’s capital. Mr. Brady, 89, fought in the historic Battle of Bulge, serving
in the U.S. Army’s 8th Infantry Division from May 1944 until June 1946. As a
teenager, he had a summer job washing vehicles in the Army motor pool at Camp
Drum, the military training facility that would become Fort Drum in 1974. He
was drafted into the Army on his 18th birthday, the youngest soldier in his unit,
H Company of the 121st Regiment. His unit safely crossed the Rhine River at the
Remagen Bridge. Three days later, the bridge collapsed after weeks of attacks
by the Germans.
Mr. La Duc, 91, served in the original 10th Mountain Division with E Company
as part of the 86th Regiment that fought in the Apennine Mountains in northern
Italy and valiantly took control of Mount Belvedere from the Germans during
intense combat. As a 19-year-old in 1943, he had volunteered to serve in this elite
mountain force that was formed that year as an alpine division, and where troops
learned to ski, rock climb and perform all other aspects of mountain warfare.
Today, the 10th is the most deployed military unit in the U.S. After the war in
Europe ended, Mr. La Duc’s outfit was selected to be part of the force to invade
Japan, but before they could be sent to the Pacific, the U.S. dropped the atomic
bomb.
These two brave men exemplify the qualities of integrity, character and service.
We are honored to call them American heroes.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
Mr. Copeland served as a Specialist for the United States Army for seven and one-
half years, from May 2001 to November 2008. In 2003, he was deployed to Iraq for
almost a year. During his service, he received the Army Achievement Medal and
the Good Conduct Medal.
Mr. Copeland found his purpose in social justice work after joining New Day
United Methodist Church in the Bronx. New Day allowed him to develop a strong
spiritual foundation, which he utilizes as a tool in helping the diverse community
he serves. He is a staunch advocate and focuses his efforts on fighting for
oppressed individuals within his community and abroad. Mr. Copeland is
currently a community organizer with the Northwest Bronx Community and
Clergy Coalition, where he serves as the Climate Justice and Energy Democracy
Organizer.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
HECTOR F. ALVARADO
Colonel Hector F. Alvarado was born and raised in a small village in the mountains
of Cayey, Puerto Rico. After graduating from high school, he began his career
as a public servant by joining the Puerto State Police as a Cadet. At the age of
19, he became the youngest law enforcement officer in the Department. In 1974,
Colonel Alvarado was promoted to the rank of Sergeant
In recognition of his service and dedication to his country and community, Colonel
Alvarado has received 18 awards and decorations, including the Legion of Merit,
Bronze Star Medal, Combat Action Badge and Military Outstanding Volunteer
Service Medal.
Colonel Alvarado volunteers with many local veterans organizations and also
works as a Probation Officer for Monroe County. He and his wife, Helen, have
been married for over 35 years and have one child together.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
LAKIA T. ECHOLS
“Act as though it’s impossible to fail” is the motto that Sergeant Lakia Echols not
only lives by, but values.
Sergeant Echols, a 17-year veteran serving with the United States Army, is the
founder of MakeMyMotherProud, which provides a range of support services to
at-risk youth. She is also the Director of The Child Center of NY Redfern in Far
Rockaway, as well as a single mother, motivational speaker, leadership teacher,
and highly motivated community leader. Ms. Echols earned a Bachelor’s degree
in Organizing Management from St. Joseph’s College and is currently pursuing
her Master’s degree at St. John’s University.
Sergeant Echols also stepped forward when Hurricane Sandy struck, quickly
mobilizing assistance for community residents who could not reach a distribution
center and bringing food and materials directly to them. She also helped raise
$20,000 from private companies that went directly to families affected by the
storm.
Sergeant Echols gives selflessly to her community and started several annual
events such as the Cinderella Ball Adult Prom, Santa Sleigh Run, Stack Bundles
Stop the Violence Basketball Tournament, and Women’s Softball League and
Empowerment Group.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
JOHN N. SOLLAZZO
After serving as the Leading Seaman of the First Division of the USS Intrepid,
and as a firefighter for 20 years at Staten Island’s Engine Company 160, John N.
Sollazzo has dedicated his adult life working hard to better the entire community
of Staten Island. Mr. Sollazzo left the Navy to marry his lifelong sweetheart,
Frances, and went on to become a staple in the borough.
Mr. Sollazzo has gone above and beyond the call of duty for the Fire Department
of the City of New York (FDNY), even after retirement. He is now the current
resident of various fire department retiree organizations that give back to the
community tremendously.
Mr. Sollazzo has been a former executive board member for non-profits such
as “Meals on Wheels” and “Youth Against Crime,” all on Staten Island. His
accomplishments and civil service to the borough of Richmond County and his
country as a whole know no limits. He is a man of high honor and rapport among
his community. Much of Mr. Sollazo’s work and dedication in his later years is
credited to his time serving as a leading seaman aboard the Intrepid.
John Sollazzo has been making an impact on Staten Island for decades through
his selfless dedication to the community as well as his strong leadership roles
in politics. He is often regarded as “Mr. Democrat” — a nickname that will live
with him forever. Mr. Sollazzo has worked tirelessly on and across the island for
all individuals.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
ROBERTO CLOTTER
Sergeant First Class Roberto Clotter was born on June 18, 1953 in Puerto Cortes,
Honduras and attended Reginald H. Hammer and Franklin D. Roosevelt schools
there.
SFC Clotter served in the Honduran Army from 1971 to 1973 before migrating to
the United States in July 1973, when he attended classes and dedicated himself
to learning the English language.
In March 1977, SFC Clotter joined the United States Army. Throughout his military
career, he served the country in a broad array of assignments and completed
training in the Primary Leadership Development Course (PLDC), also formerly
known as the Warrior Leader Course, the Basic Noncommissioned Officer Course
(BNOC), and the Advanced Noncommissioned Officer Course (ANOC). In addition,
he obtained an Associate’s degree in Administration.
Among other recognitions and awards, SFC Clotter is the recipient of the
Meritorious Service Medal. He retired from service on April 1, 1997. From
1998 to 2004, he worked for the New York Life Insurance Company as a sales
representative. He serves his community working with local youth to keep them
off the street.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
JOHN MARTINKO
John Martinko was born on December 12, 1945 in Poughkeepsie to John and
Margaret Martinko. He enlisted in the U.S. Army as an Infantryman after
graduating from Poughkeepsie High School in 1964. After completing basic
training in Fort Dix, New Jersey and advanced infantry training in Fort Jackson,
South Carolina, he was assigned to the 27th Infantry Regiment “Wolfhounds” of
the 25th Infantry Division “Tropic Lightning.”
He and his wife, Sabina, have four grown children and 15 grandchildren.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
THOMAS A. MCMILLEN
Thomas A. McMillen of Morris, proudly served our nation in the United States
Army on active duty from 1967 to 1973, completing two tours in Vietnam. During
his wartime service, he ascended to the rank of Captain and demonstrated his
versatility and expertise first as an infantry platoon commander and later as a
Chinook helicopter pilot.
During his first tour in Vietnam, CPT. McMillen commanded the 1st Platoon,
Charlie Company, 1st Infantry Division, also known as “Big Red One.” He and
his platoon fully engaged with the enemy on three occasions during search
and destroy operations. Despite the hardships, all 25 men under his command
survived their six months in the bush.
After rotating back to the U.S., CPT. McMillen returned to Vietnam in August 1970
as a Chinook pilot in the 242 Assault Support Helicopter Company. Over the next
year, he logged 973 combat flying hours, taking on small arms fire on numerous
occasions, but always returning safely.
Following his active duty service, CPT. McMillen served in the Army National
Guard, retiring in 2001 as a Chief Warrant Officer 4. In retirement, he continues
to demonstrate his devotion to his country and his fellow soldiers. CPT. McMillen
belongs to the Veterans of Foreign Wars, is a member of the Vietnam Veterans
Helicopter Association and gives group presentations about his experiences.
CPT. McMillen is proud to have received the National Defense Service Medal,
Vietnam Service Medal with 6 Campaign Stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal with
‘60 Device, Bronze Star Medal with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Aviator Badge,
Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, four Overseas Service Bars, and Combat
Infantryman’s Badge.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
RICHARD PECCI
Specialist 4th Class Richard “Richie” Pecci was born on May 24, 1946 in Queens.
At 18, he received his draft card and was called up a year later, in 1965, to start
his training.
SPC Pecci excelled at basic training, achieving a near-perfect score of 598 out of
600. He was chosen for a new unit called the Delta Troop 3/17th Air Cavalry. This
highly specialized unit combined both air and ground troops for more efficient
enemy search and destroy missions. SPC Pecci completed his training at Fort
Knox, and in 1967, he was deployed to Vietnam. Landing at the port city of Qui
Nhon, just south of Saigon, SPC Pecci began his 11-month deployment as a
sharpshooter.
The Air Cavalry’s primary mission was to search, destroy and provide convoy
protection. Due to his expert skills, SPC Pecci would be often assigned to solo
missions on the ground in war zones, alone, sometimes for multiple days at a
time. During his deployment, SPC Pecci was often under fire, including a mortar
attack, which resulted in some hearing loss and damage to his eardrum. In
recognition of his service, SPC Pecci was awarded a Citation for the TET Offensive
After completion of his service and formal discharge, SPC Pecci realized the
importance of having a community for veterans to come home to. He participates
in the Memorial Day Parade every year in Hastings-on-Hudson, where he and his
wife, Linda, are longtime residents. He has also coordinated memorials in the
Village, most recently the designation of Hastings-on-Hudson as a Purple Heart
Village.
SPC Pecci currently serves as the Commander of the American Legion in Hastings
and is retired from the New York Times, where he worked for over 35 years.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
DANIEL IZZO
Master Chief Petty Officer Daniel Izzo of Mayfield is a retired U.S. Navy SEAL who
served our country with honor for 28 years.
MCPO Izzo was one of just 22 Navy SEALs selected to participate in a pilot
program on how the SEALs would fight the Global War on Terror, particularly
in countries with a strong Al-Qaeda presence. Many of his missions remain highly
classified today.
MCPO Izzo was awarded a second Bronze Star while leading a 236-man Navy
SEAL counter insurgency unit in Northern Iraq on a 23-day-long combat operation
where his team removed 36 enemy insurgents from the battlefield.
MCPO Izzo was selected as the 1999 Navy SEAL of the Year. He currently serves
as the Undersheriff for the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office.
DANIEL IZZO IS NAMED TO
THE NEW YORK STATE VETERANS’ HALL OF FAME
BY SENATOR JAMES N. TEDISCO.
NEW YORK STATE SENATE
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
Dr. Kinne was a regular guest speaker at the Syracuse VA Chronic Pain School,
and more recently, he trained to become a volunteer Master Naturalist, now
teaching courses in birding for the Onondaga Audubon Society. There he leads
bird and nature walks, collects environmental data for Cornell University
researchers, volunteers at a wetlands conservancy, does invasive pest surveys
for the NYS Hemlock Initiative, and is an active member of the New York Forest
Owners Association.
Most importantly, Dr. Kinne says, he has been very happily married for 40 years to
his very supportive wife, Ann. They have two grown children, Carrie-Ann (a high
school teacher) and Jeremy (a USAF Major), and five wonderful grandchildren.
VETERANS’
H A L L O F FA M E
PETER CARLO
Peter Carlo served bravely in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954 during the Korean
War. A machine gunner with Company C, First Battalion, Ninth Infantry Regiment,
Second Infantry Division, he fought in five major battles during his service. Mr.
Carlo was also in the front line during the signing of the truce to end the Korean
War.
Mr. Carlo was severely wounded in his legs and back while serving on the front
line in Inchon, Korea. He has 97 pieces of shrapnel in his body that were too
deeply embedded to remove. Following treatment in an Army hospital, Mr. Carlo
returned to the front line rather than being sent home.
Mr. Carlo left the Army as a Corporal. Due to his dedication and courage, he
received numerous medals and commendations for his service, including the
Purple Heart, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the Korean Service Medal with
Three Bronze Stars, the Combat Infantryman Badge and the Republic of Korea
Presidential Unit Citation.
Following the War, Mr. Carlo returned to the Jamestown area to work in his
family’s fruit market, which he inherited and grew from one store to six. He and
his wife, Mary Ann, raised three children, a boy and two girls.
A patriot to the core, Mr. Carlo has made it his mission to donate American flags
to schools, fire departments, nonprofits and community organizations around the
Jamestown area in support of America and its veterans who served the United
States in its times of need. All the flags he donates have been flown over the U.S.
Capitol; he has presented more than 300 flags.
Mr. Carlo has always volunteered to support others and his larger community.
He is the past Commander of the Disabled American Veterans and a member of
AMVETS, and served as Chair of the Handicapped Boy Scouts of New York State
for five years.
It is a blustery fall day, the air cool and crisp, the otherwise desolate city
landscape punctuated by the occasional splash of vibrant foliage. I sit in the
passenger seat of the car, the effervescent autumn light filtering across my lap
through the open window. As the car comes to a rest before a red light, I catch
a glimpse of the vehicle in front of me. An old station wagon, the paint chipped
liberally and covered in rust, the bumper is adorned with three weather-worn
stickers. The first, barely visible through years of wear, states that the driver had
valiantly served in Vietnam. The second, less dilapidated adhesive establishes that
he is also the proud parent of a Marine. The third one succinctly proclaims, “If you
love your freedom, thank a veteran.”
A profound statement…a catalyst for thought.
If not for America’s veterans, we all would be living a vastly different reality.
For over two centuries, our veterans have fought tirelessly to protect and
preserve the democratic ideals upon which our nation was founded.
William Shakespeare once mused, “What is past is prologue.”
That statement is echoed through the many incarnations of America previous
decades have seen. As aptly expressed by those patriotic bumper stickers, one
era of veterans protects our liberty and passes the torch of service to succeeding
generations.
From the young marine in Normandy to the tanker in Kuwait, the ensign at
Leyte Gulf to the transport pilot at Khe Sanh, veterans have unfailingly defended
our honor, meeting every crisis with poise and perseverance. As the Air Force motto
declares, “The difficult we do immediately; the impossible takes a little longer.”
Veterans are the authors of our past, the defenders of our present, and the
architects of our future. They serve both for those that they hold dear to their
hearts, and for those that they have never met. It is a testament to our republic that,
according to a national poll, 89 percent of the 2.5 million Iraqi and Afghani veterans
would willingly serve again.
Our veterans are directly accountable for the fate of this great nation. By
defending our country against adversaries, they help foster an environment conducive
to the thinkers and leaders of today and tomorrow. We owe them our rights to vote,
express opinions without fear of retribution, pursue educational goals, and practice our
faith of choice.
Be it curing cancer, AIDS, and other global health epidemics, or finding solutions
to hunger and poverty, we can build a better tomorrow, thanks to the selfless sacrifices
of previous generations.
While the past requires reflection, the future entails hope, belief, and courage.
Through the course of history, America’s veterans have united an ongoing legacy with
optimism and immutable valor, spurring our nation’s promises to new heights.
Every day an American soldier renounces the guarantee of physical safety, and
eschews the comforts of home, to preserve the rights and protect the lives of current
and future generations alike.
In the moving words of the late Father Denis Edward O’Brien, United States
Marine,
“It is the soldier, not the reporter, Who has given us freedom of the press.
It is the soldier, not the poet, Who has given us freedom of speech.
It is the soldier, not the organizer, Who gave us the freedom to demonstrate.
It is the soldier, who salutes the flag, Who serves beneath the flag,
and whose coffin is draped by the flag, Who allows the protester to burn the flag.”
The veterans’ experience is like a prism; the soldier’s dedication and sacrifice like
a shaft of light refracted back to us in the form of our democratic character. Veterans
do not serve for recognition or praise; they wear the uniform because they love
America and are proud of what it stands for.
Thanks to them, our nation was created on a firm foundation of freedom and
equality. Our present day world, while challenged amid global instability, nonetheless
remains steadfastly free.
As for the future? There are no guarantees. But if our legacy is any indication, the
likelihood is that America will remain the land of the free, because it has always been
the home of the brave.