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Veterans

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Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine

Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine announced that the Suffolk County Veterans Emergency Assistance Commission is now accepting applications from veterans in need of home heating assistance. Consideration is given to all home heating options and to minor home heating system repairs.

“With all the pressures facing our heroic veterans, staying warm at night should not be one of their concerns,” said Romaine.

The Commission has $100,000 at its disposal for 2025. Members of prominent veterans’ organizations determine eligibility and sit on the commission.

“Suffolk County serves the largest population of veterans in New York State. Our office has identified there is a need for veterans, especially those on a fixed income, with assistance paying the high cost of heating their homes. These heroes that served our country in times of peace and during war deserve the help that the Suffolk County Legislature has provided through the Veterans Emergency Home Heating Assistance Program,” said Suffolk County Veterans Service Agency Director Marcelle Leis.

If you are interested in learning more and/or applying for the Veterans Emergency Home Heating Assistance Program, please contact the Suffolk County Veterans Service Agency at (631) 853-8387 or email at veteransinfo@suffolkcountyny.gov.

Recipient Criteria:

•           Completed Application

•           DD Form 214 with Character of Discharge Honorable or General Under Honorable Conditions

•           Household Income (W-2, Disability Rating, Social Security, etc.)

•           Proof of Heating Expenses (oil, electricity, gas) or Boiler/Pluming Estimate

•           Narrative letter describing need for assistance

All above information must be submitted with application to:

Keith O’Reilly, VSO

Suffolk County Veterans Service Agency

100 Veterans Memorial Hwy.

P.O. Box 6100

Hauppauge, NY 11788-0099

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Assemblyman Steve Stern with veterans. Photo courtesy Assemblyman Stern’s office

New York State Assemblyman Steve Stern (D-Huntington) announced he has been appointed the new chairman of the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs by Assembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie.

“I am so proud to be the next chairman of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee,” said Stern. “It has been my privilege for my entire career to work closely with and for the brave men and women who have sacrificed so much to protect our great nation. I look forward to meeting with our veterans from across New York State to deliver meaningful legislation for our local heroes and their families.”

“As former chair of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I am thrilled to congratulate my former colleague and neighbor, Assemblyman Steve Stern, on his appointment as the new chair. Assemblyman Stern is a dedicated leader who has long championed the needs of our nation’s heroes, and I have no doubt he will continue to fight for the care and support our veterans rightfully deserve,” said Kimberly Jean-Pierre, former Assemblymember for the 11th Assembly District and former chair of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee.

In the Suffolk County Legislature, where he served for 12 years, Stern was chairman of the Veterans Committee. During his tenure, he introduced and passed the landmark legislation “Housing Our Homeless Heroes,” ensuring that veterans and their families always have a place to call home.

He also authored the “Protect Our Fallen Heroes Act,” which protects military funerals from reprehensible and disrespectful protests while families are grieving the loss of their loved ones and ensures respect for those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation.

“My work with Assemblyman Stern goes back to his time at the county, where he championed many programs that positively affected the lives of our veterans, including the Joseph P. Dwyer Veterans Peer Support Project. Since its inception in 2012, the Dwyer Project’s impact on the community has resulted in reductions in hospitalizations, sustained families, secured gainful employment, prevented homelessness, promoted daily wellness, and absolutely saved lives,” said Marcelle Leis, director of the Suffolk County Veterans Services Agency. “With Stern’s appointment as chair of the Standing Committee on Veterans’ Affairs in the New York State Assembly, his leadership will continue to forge new programs for veterans throughout the state.”

“The veterans of New York State received a gift today with the appointment of Assemblyman Steve Stern as chairman of the Assembly Veterans’ Affairs Committee,” said Thomas Ronayne, former director of the Suffolk County Veterans Services Agency. “Assemblyman Stern brings two decades of selfless commitment and service to the veterans’ community, characterized by understanding, compassion, and a true grasp of the issues and concerns that affect us. An honest and intelligent chairman who will give his all to ensure we are well served by the state government.”

After being elected to the Assembly in 2018, Stern continued to deliver for veterans. He has sponsored and passed legislation to improve access to critical information, ensuring veterans receive the benefits they deserve, as well as legislation creating a task force to study and improve veterans’ employment opportunities. He has also passed legislation to protect veteran homebuyers from fraud through loan counseling and assistance, and to expand opportunities for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business Enterprises.

“Steve Stern has effectively advocated for veterans and their families since he began serving as our legislator for the 16th District in Suffolk County. I am very glad to see that he has risen to the position of chairman of the Committee on Veterans Affairs in the New York State Assembly. He has years of experience and a deep knowledge of veterans’ issues to make a real difference. New York State veterans of all conflicts can be assured that he will continue to fight for them,” said Bob Santo, past commander of the American Legion Greenlawn Post 1244.

“Assemblyman Stern has been helping me serve our homeless veterans since 2007; he has gone with me to the VA in Northport, and he has helped me serve dinners to our homeless veterans on Thanksgiving and throughout the year at St. Anthony of Padua. He is very dedicated to our veterans,” said Dr. Ray Mascolo, D.D.S., who provides free dental care to veterans on Long Island.

Stern continues to be at the forefront of initiatives to improve services and care for veterans. He introduced legislation to create a study of women veterans’ healthcare issues to improve veterans’ healthcare in New York, and a bill to ensure that a veteran’s disability benefits would not jeopardize their eligibility for public housing.

“As chairman of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I will remain committed to ensuring that our veterans across New York State always receive the recognition, support, and services they deserve,” said Stern.

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Photo courtesy of Leg. Trotta's office

Juan Rodriguez, a US Army veteran who served his country with distinction during the Korean War while assigned to the “Borinqueneers” the 65th Infantry Regiment, was recognized for his distinguished service at a celebration at the VFW Post 5796 in Kings Park on January 11.

During the Korean War, often referred to as the “Forgotten War,” the men of the 65th Infantry Regiment earned 10 Distinguished Service Crosses, 256 Silver Stars, and 596 Bronze Stars. In addition, on June 10, 2014, the Regiment was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal. Then in 2021 Congress designated April 13 as “National Borinqueneers Day.”The 65th Regiment was the first segregated Hispanic military unit from Puerto Rico and the first unit of the Korean War to receive such distinction.

After the war, Mr. Rodriguez enrolled in the School of Commercial Arts and upon graduating he worked in advertising and then started his own Hot Press business in Manhattan. With the advent of computers, he closed his business and worked out his home for a couple of years and then secured a position as a custodian for the Kings Park School District.

During the program, Legislator Trotta related a story about his father who joined the marines during the Korean War as he did not want to go to college. In boot camp, his superiors gave him a test and he did so well that they sent him to college, and he was stationed in Puerto Rico during the Korean War. “I am extremely proud to be here today and thank you for your service to our country,” added Trotta.

Pictured at the celebration are from left to right Nick Cipolla, representing US Congressman Nick LaLota, NYS Senator Mario Mattera, Korean War Veteran Juan Rodriguez and Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta.

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Photo from Richard Knutson

The American Legion Wilson Ritch Post 432 Family of Port Jefferson Station along with Boy Scout Troop 377 of East Setauket recently sponsored and fed Veterans a Christmas Dinner Italian Style at the Long Island State Veterans Home in Stony Brook. The meal was well received and very much appreciated.

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Legislator Bontempi with Suffolk County Veteran of the Year honoree Eugene Leavy.

Legislator Stephanie Bontempi (R-18th L.D.)  recognized Eugene Leavy as the Suffolk County Veteran of the Year for the 18th Legislative District during the Suffolk County Legislature’s General Meeting on November 26. Leavy, a resident of East Northport, is a United States Army veteran who served heroically during World War II. The occasion was made even more special as it also marked Eugene’s 99th birthday, which the audience celebrated by singing “Happy Birthday.”

Leavy was a member of the 100th Infantry Division and fought courageously in the Ardennes Offensive, widely known as the Battle of the Bulge. For five grueling weeks during the harsh winter, Eugene and his fellow soldiers endured overwhelming odds as they defended the critical 80-mile American defensive line in the Ardennes Forest, despite being outnumbered and under-equipped. For his bravery, Leavy earned a Combat Infantryman Badge, three campaign ribbons, and the prestigious Bronze Star, awarded after he risked his life to deliver a map and a critical message under heavy enemy fire. By the end of his service, he had attained the rank of Sergeant.

Following the war, Eugene lived in Germany with his wife, a German native, for two years. While there, he worked with the Army Military Government to prevent former Nazi officials from occupying positions of influence. Upon returning to the United States, Eugene and his wife settled down and raised two children.

Even at 99 years old, Eugene continues to inspire those around him. A licensed pilot, he still enjoys flying and often shares his firsthand accounts of World War II with local high school students, offering invaluable lessons on history and sacrifice. He is also a proud grandfather to three grandchildren and a great-grandfather to nine.

“Eugene Leavy embodies the true meaning of service, sacrifice, and resilience,” said Legislator Bontempi. “His contributions during World War II, his commitment to rebuilding in its aftermath, and his dedication to educating future generations are nothing short of extraordinary. It is an honor to recognize him as Legislative District 18’s Suffolk County Veteran of the Year, and I thank him for his enduring service to our country and community. I’d like to also extend my congratulations to all the other district’s honorees and thank them for their service.”

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From left, Melissa Negrin-Wiener of Cona Elder Law with contest winners Harry Li, Marjorie Callahan, and Maggie Deegan. Photo courtesy of Cona Elder Law

Cona Elder Law, an estate planning firm based in Melville, recently held its 15th annual “These Colors Don’t Run” art contest at the Long Island State Veterans Home in Stony Brook, featuring work created by elementary, middle, and high school students from nearby schools emphasizing the sacrifices and dedication of our veterans.

The patriotic event brought together veterans, families, and the local community to celebrate creativity and honor the sacrifices of those who served.

From left, Jonathan Spier (LISVH), Michelle Cheslak (LISVH), Melissa Negrin-Wiener (Cona Elder Law), Julie Allegretti (Cona Elder Law), Christina Pecoraro (Cona Elder Law), and Janet Russell (Cona Elder Law)

“We are so happy to work with the State Veterans Home team, who take such wonderful care of their residents,” said Melissa Negrin-Wiener, Senior Partner at Cona Elder Law. “As an elder law attorney, it is a place where I feel I can refer my clients for placement and be one-hundred percent confident that they will receive the care they need.” 

Throughout the afternoon, attendees, staff and residents had the opportunity to view the artwork, meet the winners of the art contest, and listen to a live band. The residents enjoyed the visit and entertainment.

The winning students are Maggie Deegan,  an 11th grader at Harborfields High School in Greenlawn; Marjorie Callahan, a 5th grader at RJO Intermediate School in Kings Park; and Harry Li, a 3rd grader at W.S. Mount Elementary School in Stony Brook.

“Cona Elder Law has a long-standing commitment to serving the needs of veterans, the disabled, and the elderly in our community,” said Jennifer Cona, Founder and Managing Partner of Cona Elder Law. “Through initiatives like today’s art contest, our firm strives to enhance the quality of life for those who have served while fostering multigenerational connection and community.” 

“We are the land of the free because of the brave men and women who have worn the uniform. They made the United States of America the greatest country in the world to live in, and for that, we owe them a debt of gratitude that can never truly be repaid,” said Jonathan Spier, Deputy Director of the Long Island State Veterans Home. 

“I applaud Cona Elder Law for their ongoing efforts to ensure our children understand, appreciate, and honor the sacrifices that veterans have made. Through initiatives like the ‘These Colors Don’t Run’ Art Contest, they are helping the next generation not only remember, but truly appreciate the profound impact of our nation’s heroes.”

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Suffolk County Legislator Steve Englebright named David Tracy Veteran of the Year for the county’s Fifth Legislative District. Photo from Steve Englebright’s office

Suffolk County legislators honored veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces at the Legislature’s General Meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 26. During the meeting, each of the 18 legislators introduced a veteran as their district’s Veteran of the Year.

Legislator Steve Englebright (D-Setauket) chose Stony Brook resident David Tracy, a United States Marine Corps Corporal, to honor.

Tracy’s commitment to making our world a better place has been his mission since joining the Marines in 2003. He served for four years, and during the Global War on Terror, he completed two tours of duty in Iraq. Tracy’s service was not without personal sacrifice, as he was awarded the Purple Heart after sustaining an injury during his first tour.

Since 2010, Tracy has continued his commitment to protecting his fellow Americans as a Law Enforcement Officer with the Department of Homeland Security.

Tracy, who lives in Stony Brook with his wife, Becky, and son, Sean, has become a familiar face in his community as the founder and chairman of the Three Village Dads Foundation. Since 2019, the foundation has raised approximately $400,000 for local causes, including $100,000 donated to Stony Brook Children’s Hospital and $15,000 pledged to the Long Island State Veterans Home. Recently, foundation members refurbished the outside area of the historic Merritt-Hawkins Homestead in East Setauket and are now the house’s stewards.

Englebright said he recently toured the homestead with Tracy. He added that he was impressed by the interpretive narrative the veteran had composed for permanent signage now installed at the historic site. 

“It’s really noteworthy,” he said. “David Tracy has thoughtfully researched the significant aspects and features of the old growth woodland and Vernal pond parkland that this historic residence is embedded into.”

Additionally, Tracy serves as the quartermaster of VFW Post 3054 in Setauket and is a former trustee of the Three Village Historical Society and Three Village Community Trust.

“It is wonderful that today we have an opportunity to honor David Tracy’s many accomplishments and contributions,” Englebright said. “Thank you for your good work.”

 

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Photo from Leg. McCaffrey's office

Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces from across Suffolk County were honored for their service and sacrifice in helping to protect our freedom and liberty. Each of the 18 members of the Suffolk County Legislature introduced a veteran as “Veteran of the Year” from their district at Tuesday’s General Meeting of the Legislature in the Rose Caracappa Auditorium of the William H. Rogers Legislative Building.

Suffolk County is home to the largest population of veterans in New York State and has one of the largest veterans’ populations of any county in the United States.

“Today’s recognition of our veterans is the least we can do for their vital role in protecting our freedom and liberty,” said Presiding Officer Kevin J. McCaffrey. “My colleagues and I are proud to celebrate the inspiring commitment of these men and women who have significantly contributed to their communities and our Nation. By publicly commemorating their achievements, Suffolk County reaffirms its gratitude and respect for those who have served in the Armed Forces, ensuring that their stories and sacrifices remain a lasting part of our County’s and our Nation’s legacy.

“From my district, I am pleased to be able to honor Christopher M. Geackel of Lindenhurst, who retired from the US Air Force as a Master Sergeant in 2006 after 23 years of service. Among his awards, Chris received three Commendation Medals, five Air Force Achievement Medals, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, two Meritorious Service Medals; and was named the Community College of the Air Force Noncommissioned Officer and Athletic Warrior of the Year.”

“As a member of Wade-Burns VFW Post 7279 for 17 years, Chris has served as both Post Commander and Suffolk County Commander. He serves as coordinator of the Village of Lindenhurst Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies, and regularly visits the Long Island State Veterans Home and VA Hospital, to provide clothing, birthday cake, gifts, and vouchers to fellow veterans. He is a truly a shining example of selfless service,” said McCaffrey.

November is a somber and celebratory month for veterans, including as it does Veterans Day on November 11th – where ceremonies mark “the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month” in honor of the men and women who have served our nation – as well as the US Marine Corps birthday on November 10th.

LD Legislator Veteran and Rank Branch Residence:

  1 Catherine Stark — Michael Mundy US Marine Corps Shelter Island, Lance Corporal

  2 Ann Welker — Bob Grisnik US Air Force Southampton, Colonel

  3 Jim Mazzarella — Enrico ‘Rick’ Rossi US Navy Shirley, Seaman

  4 Nick Caracappa —  Frank Sanzone US Air Force Selden, Master Sergeant

  5 Steve Englebright — David Tracy US Marine Corps Stony Brook Corporal

  6 Chad Lennon — Joe Cognitore US Army Rocky Point, Platoon Sergeant & Platoon Leader

  7 Dominick Thorne — Walter Maresco US Air Force Medford, Airman First Class

  8 Anthony Piccirillo — William Borthwick US Army Oakdale, Specialist 4

  9 Sam Gonzalez — Dr. Jaime Marcos US Marine Corps Bay Shore, Sergeant

10 Trish Bergin — Christopher J. Hirsch US Army Hauppauge, Specialist Fifth Class

11 Steve Flotteron — William F. Murray US Army Bay Shore, Specialist Fourth Class

12 Leslie Kennedy — Grace Mehl US Navy Smithtown, Commander

13 Rob Trotta — Marty Thompson US Navy Saint James, Senior Chief Petty Officer

14 Kevin McCaffrey — Christopher M. Geackel US Air Force Lindenhurst, Master Sergeant

15 Jason Richberg — Charles ‘Chuck’ Vinciulla US Navy Amityville, Corpsman

16 Rebecca Sanin — Santiago Mejia US National Guard Huntington Station, Staff Sergeant

17 Tom Donnelly — Charlie Armstrong US Air Force South Huntington, Sergeant

18 Stephanie Bontempi — Eugene Leavy US Army East Northport, Sergeant

More information on each honoree can be found on the Suffolk County Legislature’s website at the following link:

https://www.scnylegislature.us/1764/2024-Veteran-of-the-Year

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Legislator Sanin with District 16 Veteran of the Year Staff Sergeant Santiago Mejia

At the November General Meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature, Legislator Rebecca Sanin proudly recognized Staff Sergeant Santiago Mejia of the National Guard as the 16th Legislative District’s 2024 “Veteran of the Year.” The ceremony, held on November 26 in the Rose Caracappa Auditorium of the William H. Rogers Legislative Building, celebrated veterans from each of Suffolk County’s 18 legislative districts.

“Staff Sergeant Santiago Mejia represents the best of Suffolk County’s veteran community,” Legislator Sanin remarked. “His 16 years of dedicated service, not only to our nation but also to his fellow soldiers, exemplify leadership, compassion, and the unwavering commitment to service that strengthens our communities and our country.”

Staff Sergeant Mejia’s contributions are profound. As an Equal Opportunity officer in the Army National Guard, he has provided critical support to soldiers in need, including instances where his actions have saved lives. His advocacy extends to fostering opportunities for others, as evidenced by his tireless work assisting 11 fellow soldiers in achieving U.S. citizenship. Overcoming language barriers and navigating complex processes, Staff Sergeant Mejia’s mentorship made their dreams of citizenship a reality.

Beyond his official duties, Staff Sergeant Mejia’s impact has been recognized with the President’s Bronze Volunteer Service Award for his 100 hours of overseas service. His talents as a photographer have also brought comfort to soldiers, capturing and preserving moments that connect them to their loved ones back home.

“Staff Sergeant Mejia’s actions inspire all of us to lead with compassion and dedication,” said Legislator Sanin. “His service not only reflects the highest standards of military honor but also enriches the lives of everyone he touches. Suffolk County is privileged to count him among our own.”

Suffolk County is home to the largest population of veterans in New York State, with one of the largest veteran communities in the nation. The annual “Veteran of the Year” recognition underscores the county’s commitment to honoring those who have served and sacrificed to protect freedom and liberty.

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Photos courtesy of Three Village School District

Two students from the Three Village Central School District won essay contests sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars. High school students were invited to participate in the VFW Voice of Democracy student essay contest. The contest challenged students to write and record an audio essay based on an annual patriotic theme.

This year’s theme was, “Is America Today Our Forefathers’ Vision?” Nafisah Haque, a junior in Ms. Parrella’s United States History and Government Honors class at Ward Melville High School, was selected as the local winner for Setauket Post 3054. Haque’s essay will now move on to the district level competition.

Additionally, students in grades six through eight were encouraged to enter the VFW Patriot’s Pen youth essay contest, which provides an opportunity for students to share their thoughts on an annual patriotic theme. The theme for the 2024-2025 school year was, “My Voice in America’s Democracy?” Amelia James, a sixth grader in Mr. Prinzo’s class at Nassakeag Elementary School, was chosen as the local winner. Amelia’s essay will also advance to the district level competition.

Dr. Christina Cone, district director of social studies, commended the students, saying, “We are proud of their thoughtful reflections on our nation’s values. Their participation showcases both academic dedication and a commitment to the ideals of democracy. We wish them the best of luck in the next stages of the competition. A special thank you to Setauket VFW Post 3054 for their continued support of our students.”

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