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Mel Cohen in 1967. Photo courtesy Mel Cohen

By Richard Acritelli

Mel M. Cohen has lived a life of service that continues to this very day. He was born in Kew Gardens, Queens, in 1948 and moved to Levittown with his family several years later. Cohen enjoyed working around cars as a young man and considered himself a “motor-head.” Riding on his bike, Cohen delivered magazines and worked in the deli department at Waldbaum’s.Cohen had much in common with many of the other kids since this suburban area was mostly built by using the GI Bill for returning veterans of World War II.  Many of the fathers who saw each other at the stores, schools and baseball fields, were also veterans who fought for America within the European and Pacific theaters of operations.  One month after the June 6, 1944, landings, Cohen’s father Robert was a private first class in the 380th Construction Signal Battalion.  For the rest of that war, the senior Cohen ran communication wiring to support the aggressive strength of the army that pushed into German territory.

During his senior year in high school, Cohen kept a watchful eye on the Vietnam War, as many of the young men from this sprawling suburb were drafted into the military.  His brother Gerald was a member of the 101st Airborne and he instructed Cohen not to wait for the draft.   Two days after graduating high school, Cohen enlisted into the United States Air Force.  Completing his basic and advanced individual training in Texas, this future police officer became a member of the security forces.

Mel Cohen

As a young man, Cohen was deployed to a secret military base in Taiwan to guard F-100 Super Sabres and F-4 Phantoms.  These military planes were loaded with nuclear weapons that could be flown in seven minutes to hit the Chinese mainland.   Cohen was sent as a member of the security forces to guard these powerful aircraft. During the height of the Vietnam War, the United States was concerned about the strength of the Chinese to possibly take over the island nation.

Over the span of two major wars, the Cohen family greatly sacrificed toward the defense of America.  First, with his father’s experience during World War II and then through the service of his older brother, Gerald.  Cohen looked up to this sibling who was a hardened platoon sergeant in Vietnam and specialized in handling light weapons infantry.  With two weeks left on his tour, Gerald, a member of the 101st Airborne Division’s 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry, C Company was killed by a sniper in the field on April 21, 1968.  

For Cohen, it seemed like yesterday that his beloved brother was lost fighting for this nation in Vietnam. For the rest of his life, Cohen has helped others in honor of Gerald.

By 1953, Levittown had 70,000 residents, and it emerged as one of the largest suburban townships in America.  The president of the Suffolk County Vietnam Veterans Chapter 11, Richard Kitson, grew up in Levittown, and he attended MacArthur High School.  His father’s story was similar to Cohen’s, through their veterans affairs activities over the last several decades, they have become best friends.  They were both from Gold Star families, as Kitson served in the United States Marine Corps in Vietnam as a mortarman, and when he came home from this war, his brother John Francis entered the military.

Richard’s brother John Kitson was a machine gunner in a weapons platoon of the Marine Corps.  John was killed in combat in Vietnam in 1969.  Whereas Cohen and Kitson met several years later, at a Vietnam War memorial at a library in Levittown, their brothers’ names are two spaces away from each other.  Every day, both veterans speak to each other in the morning, on their way home from work, and they meet for breakfast on Saturdays.  

Kitson fondly looks at this relationship and states, “We are best friends, as we both lost a brother to this war, and we were Gold Star families who heavily suffered from this loss.  Cohen, for almost his entire life. has been a ‘Veteran’s Veteran,’ who always expects to help others.”  Both men, along with their good friend Clarence Simpson, wore their “green jackets” and flashed brilliant smiles as they were recognized by Rep. Nick LaLotta (R-NY1) for outstanding veteran achievement for this community and nation.

Grieving over the loss of his brother, Cohen served the rest of his air force time guarding B-52 Bombers at the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) base in Plattsburg, New York.  Vividly recalling the brutal cold weather during guard duty, after four years of service, Cohen looked forward to leaving the military in 1970.  Using the GI Bill, Cohen attended Farmingdale State College for his associate degree, earned his bachelor’s degree in behavioral science at New York Institute of Technology and gained a master’s degree in criminal justice at C. W. Post.  Taking several police exams, Cohen was hired at Rochester as an officer for a year, gained experience, and quickly took a job closer to home as an Amityville town police officer.  By 1972, Cohen was hired by the Suffolk County Police Department, where he spent the bulk of his law enforcement career until his retirement in 2003.  For three decades, Cohen held a myriad of jobs that included working in Babylon for the 1st Squad and for the District Attorney’s Office.

A well-rounded law enforcement figure, Cohen liked dealing with crimes and incidents that dealt with automobiles.  He became a specialist within these matters and received training from the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Quantico, Virginia.  He was also sent to the Ford Motor Company and Harley Davidson to learn about the construction of these vehicles and how to determine ownership from theft and fire.  For over 20 years, this respected detective was counted upon to solve many automotive dilemmas.  

Mike Conlon, a member of law enforcement and a longtime guidance counselor at Rocky Point High School, worked closely with Cohen.  Conlon said, “This seasoned detective was highly respected within this field and the tactics that he used to solve these crimes was extremely impressive.  Cohen was one of the most well-versed police officers to handle these types of unique situations.”

Since he retired, Cohen has been one of the most active advocates of veterans affairs on Long Island and New York State.  With Ralph Zanchelli, he helped establish a program for incarcerated veterans to help put them on the right path.  They counsel veterans who are suffering from alcohol and drug abuse and are still inflicted with post-traumatic stress disorder.  Cohen is pleased with this program’s important results over the last several years in trying to find jobs, housing and medical assistance for these veterans who have fallen on hard times.

Every Memorial Day at Bald Hill in Holtsville, Cohen along with Kitson and other members of the Suffolk County Chapter of Vietnam Veterans Chapter 11 hold a major ceremony.  After attending the program at Calverton National Cemetery, they read the 256 names of Suffolk County veterans who were killed during the Vietnam War.  This tradition has been done every year since 1991 by this local chapter of Vietnam veterans.  Cohen, Kitson, Clarence Simpson, the members of this special veterans organization all come from different ethnic, racial and religious backgrounds.   They are “Brothers in Arms” who demonstrate on a regular basis, that this melting pot of different origins has unitedly worked together for the betterment of the past, present and future veterans affairs needs.

For 10 years, Cohen organized breakfast for local Gold Star families at the Marriott Hotel in Hauppauge.  Always next to him was Kitson, as both men use their sensitive experiences in how to assist other families who have lost members defending the United States.  After World War I, President Woodrow Wilson supported the recognition of families, especially mothers who lost loved ones in uniform.  Many people do not realize that living among our citizens are families that have suffered over the agonizing loss of members of the armed forces.  It has been estimated that since 9/11/01 more than 16,000 veterans have died in noncombat circumstances, this number far surpassed the 7,000 Americans who died in Iraq and Afghanistan. Cohen has played a vital role in providing counseling to these grieving families and advocating to ensure that they are not forgotten by our local, state and federal levels of government.

Cohen has been a key member with Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America.  This is one of the oldest veteran’s organizations in this country that was chartered by Congress in 1896 that was originally based out of Manhattan.  Cohen is currently the post commander for the Colonel Mickey Marcus Jewish War Veterans Post in Centereach. This year, Suffolk County Leg. Chad Lennon (R-Mount Sinai) recognized Cohen as the Man of the Year for the Jewish American Heritage Month.

Cohen ensures the mission of this organization to always help local veterans  and to oppose the rise of antisemitism. Cohen, as the New York State action officer, investigates hatred against Jewish people in this state and nation.

And through all these numerous endeavors, Cohen is also an important member of Rocky Point VFW Post 6249.  Always wanting to help with the many activities of this extremely busy veteran’s organization, its commander, Joseph A. Cognitore, is pleased to have the experience of this productive citizen.  Cognitore stated, “His determination to always help our local and national veterans never stops.  He is a true gentleman who has a wealth of knowledge that has been truly amazing to witness over the last several decades.  We are proud to have the presence of Cohen at Post 6249, where he is one of the finest patriots that I have ever worked with within Veterans Affairs.”

Cohen is on the committee for the Veterans Day program that is held at Calverton National Cemetery.  He meets once a month to help with the Wreaths Across America program, organizes speakers and the several groups of veterans organizations that will attend this important event. With Cognitore, Cohen is on the Advisory Board for the Long Island State Veterans Home in Stony Brook to oversee the care of veterans, the number of beds, services and the medical qualifications for this staff.   

Kitson said about his good friend, “Cohen is a special person who on a regular basis has made this area extremely proud of his devotion to demonstrate an unyielding presence to always extend a helping hand to a veteran.” 

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Steven A. Hayduk alongside his father, Stephen G. Hayduk. Photo courtesy Peter Scully

By Serena Carpino

Hayduk Engineering recently celebrated the opening of its new office near MacArthur Airport. 

“The firm’s move became necessary because of the growth of the firm over the past 10 years. The addition of dozens of new employees resulted in the need for an expanded office space, leading to relocation from the former office space,” Hayduk’s director of business development, Peter Scully, said. He is a former NYSDEC regional director and Suffolk County deputy county executive.

Stephen G. Hayduk, who founded the company in 1984, began as a one-man operation from his house. Over the past 40 years, his firm has grown to 42 employees in what can be described as a “rags to riches” story.

After dropping out of Deer Park High School, Hayduk worked as a truck driver on Long Island before enlisting in the U.S. Army Aviation School at 18 years old. He spent three years serving in the Vietnam War as a member of the U.S. Army 57th Assault Helicopter Company.

According to Hayduk, Vietnam motivated him to improve himself. “I was a good student but I was interested in other things, not college. Vietnam helped me with my maturity and to put things back into perspective. When I came back, I used the GI Bill to go to college. So, even if it was in many ways a negative experience, I turned it into a positive one,” he said.

Hayduk returned to Long Island in 1971 and soon enrolled in Suffolk County Community College, earning his associate degree in 1974. He furthered his education at Rochester Institute of Technology, graduating in 1976 with high honors and obtaining a bachelor’s degree.

Over the next several years, Hayduk gained experience at local engineering firms, even becoming the chief engineer of a 75-employee firm. At the same time, he taught courses in the engineering technology division at SCCC.

In 1984, he founded Hayduk Engineering. That same year, he earned the Young Engineer of the Year award from the New York State Society of Professional Engineers and the Suffolk County Chapter of the NYSSPE.

The NYSSPE Suffolk County Chapter awarded him the 1990-91 Engineer of the Year. In 1991, Hayduk helped with the construction of the Suffolk County Vietnam Veterans Memorial, located atop Bald Hill. He described this experience as “a very emotional time with thousands of people there.” It inspired him to have a reunion and, two years later, Hayduk met with 75 members of his unit and a Green Beret in Florida.

In 1992, Suffolk County Executive Robert Gaffney (R) appointed Hayduk as the commissioner of the county’s Department of Public Works. Hayduk served in this position for five years, during which time he shut down his own firm.

As commissioner, Hayduk held many responsibilities, including the maintenance of county buildings, highways, bridges and waterways. In addition, he oversaw hazardous and toxic waste removal, county fleet maintenance and other related tasks. He also served as the chairman of the Suffolk County Sewer Agency, Dredging Project Screening Committee and the Space Management Steering Committee.

In 1997, Hayduk decided to return to operating Hayduk Engineering. He managed the firm as a sole proprietorship before turning it into an LLC in 2002.

Years later, in 2015, Hayduk Engineering was certified by New York State as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business.

“Hayduk Engineering’s status as both a New York State Certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business and federally Certified Service-Disabled Veterans Business Enterprise has contributed significantly to the growth of the firm since 2016,” Scully said. 

Today, the firm is run by Hayduk and his son, Stephen. They provide many services, including civil and site engineering, highway engineering, water and wastewater engineering, stormwater management and construction administration. The firm’s clients include both private sector customers, including developers and owners of private sewer plants and government agencies, including the Nassau County and Suffolk County departments of public works, the towns of Babylon, Brookhaven, Smithtown and Southampton, the New York State Thruway Authority, Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, New York State Department of Transportation, the Long Island Rail Road, Metropolitan Transportation Authority and the State University of New York, among others. 

Hayduk’s work has been recognized with numerous awards, including several for the Town of Smithtown Callahan’s Beach project and for Best Engineering Firm courtesy of Long Island Business News.

“The company is continually recruiting new staff and anticipates hiring additional employees in the months and years ahead,” Scully said.

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Scenes from the May 4 Pancake Breakfast. Photo courtesy Nicole LaMacchia NYS Senate Regional Director

On Saturday, May 4, several elected officials hosted a pancake breakfast to honor the service of local veterans. The first annual pancake breakfast took place at the VFW Post 3054.

The program began with an opening prayer by Chaplin Michael Russell, who was followed by Chaplin David Mann, singing a beautiful rendition of the national anthem. 

The highlight of the gathering was the moment Sen. Anthony Palumbo (R-New Suffolk), Assemblyman Ed Flood (R,C-Port Jefferson) and Leg. Nick Caracappa (C-Selden) presented staff Sgt. Michael E. Russell with a state proclamation acknowledging his service and dedication to his community.

Michael Russell was born in Brooklyn and grew up in Toms River, New Jersey. He was enlisted in the United Air Force from 1966-1970 and served in Vietnam from 1968-1969. Upon his return to the United States, Russell was employed with the Federal Aviation Administration from 1970-1981 until he left there and spent the remainder of his career as Managing Director and Senior Vice President of merged Wall Street firms. 

For his service, Russell received two bronze stars and a purple heart.

Throughout his life in the private sector, Russell continued to serve his fellow man. He was a member of the NYS small business administration and the MTA Capital Review Board. 

He was commissioner of New York State Cable TV Commission, special assistant to NYS Senate Majority Leader Ralph Marino, a trustee on the SUNY Board of Trustees, the chair of the Committee of SUNY Hospitals and the Nassau-Suffolk Hospital Council. 

Russell also served as a member of the Committee of SUNY Community Colleges, the Committee of Finance and Investments, Committee of Athletics and Four-Year Schools, Committee on Charter Schools, and a member of the Board of Trustees at John T. Mather Memorial Hospital. 

Russell is a founding member of Jefferson’s Ferry Continuous Care Facility and was chair of the Transition Team for Suffolk County District Attorney James M. Catterson and a member of the  Transition Team for Suffolk County Executive Robert Gaffney.

Russell is married to his wife Barbara Russell and they have three children and six grandchildren.

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Photo courtesy Frank Acosta
Photo courtesy Frank Acosta

By Aramis Khorso

Six years ago, Navy veteran Fred Acosta created a children’s card game called Red Light Green Light. His invention would, in the following years, go on to sell on an international scale. 

The 76-year-old game inventor claimed that the secret to creating successful children’s games is “to have a good sense of humor.” He has been inventing all sorts of innovations for roughly 40 years with his brother, Nick Acosta. Both of the brothers were born in Brooklyn where they were raised. They eventually both served in the U.S. Army in the Vietnam War — Fred in the Navy and his brother in the Marines. 

Fred Acosta shared how tight-knit he and his brother are. Acosta explained how he and his brother are “partners” in almost everything. 

It seems that being an inventor runs through Fred Acosta’s blood. His father and both his brothers all share the common passion of innovating creations. According to Acosta, this familial talent hadn’t manifested itself until after he and his brother served in the Vietnam War. “When you’re an inventor, you’re an inventor 24/7,” Acosta said. “You’re always looking for something to improve upon.” 

When Acosta returned home from the war, he got married, had a family and in 1981 moved to Port Jefferson. Acosta didn’t start making games officially until he was 36. “When you’ve got a family, you have to support them,” he said. Acosta outlined the various struggles he faced in pursuit of his passion: “An inventor can’t make money unless he sells an idea — it’s very hard, you’d be surprised.”

In respect to his game Red Light Green Light, Acosta admitted that he thought the key to the success of his game was because of its design carefully catered toward children. “It’s very popular because it’s extremely simple,” he said. “It’s also quick, so kids don’t get bored playing it.” The inspiration for the impressively rated game “just came” to Acosta who explained his spark of inspiration by saying “I’m a natural inventor.” Red Light Green Light has stunning reviews on Amazon and can be found at Kohl’s and Walmart. 

While making a nice profit, it seems the success of Acosta’s creation carries a more sentimental reward for him. After many years of inventing games and dealing with the struggles a profession such as his brings, success is something heavy with importance for him. 

“We’re in our 70s and we’re selling card games, you know?” said Acosta, referring to his brother and himself. “You’re never too old to create something successful.” Acosta is not only a game creator but he has also invented all sorts of different gadgets, some artwork and even done graphic designing. 

Now, Acosta lives with his large family of three children and nine grandchildren in Port Jefferson. Even after his big success, Acosta is pursuing his passion and intends on creating more games in the future. He said he still previews his game inventions with his grandchildren before the games are sent out into the market. 

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By Rich Acritelli

During the 1980s, there were many Vietnam War veterans raising families among us. Many of these veterans rarely spoke of their combat experiences. Richard Kitson is a local leader who tirelessly advocates for all veterans.

A longtime resident of Port Jefferson Station, president of the Suffolk County Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 11 and a Rocky Point VFW Post 6249 member, Kitson has always cared for veterans. Originally from Manhattan, he moved to Levittown in 1954 and lived among the massive veteran population that had used the Montgomery GI Bill for housing.

Coming from a large family, his father fought during the Battle of the Bulge, receiving the Purple Heart for his valor against the Germans during World War II.

Kitson enjoyed the bustling suburban community, where he swam at town pools, ran track, played basketball and was a talented baseball catcher who later coached his two sons.

After graduating high school in 1965, Kitson briefly attended St. Francis College in Brooklyn and moved back to Manhattan. Working and going to school full time, Kitson eventually joined the United States Marine Corps in 1966. He graduated from Parris Island, South Carolina, and was trained at the demolition and heavy equipment school.

After going to the Jungle Warfare Training Center at Camp Pendleton, California, Kitson was deployed to South Vietnam’s I Corps, stationed at Đông Hà Combat Base, located near the North and South Vietnamese Demilitarized Zone.

As a result of heavy casualties, Kitson’s job soon changed. He was ordered to be a mortarman to support the Marines fighting in the field. Quickly learning this new task, Kitson aimed to help American infantry “grunts” operate against the enemy.

This hotly contested area is remembered for its heavy American casualties. Years later, Kitson still vividly agonizes over the memory of lost comrades whom he considers close friends.

After completing his tour in South Vietnam, Kitson was ordered to Okinawa, Japan, to be stationed with his original company. Promoted to corporal, Kitson helped create many engineering products on the island. Arriving home in 1968, Kitson was sent to Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, and quickly returned to civilian life.

Kitson observed the political and social upheaval of the war, remembering the poor reception veterans received on their return home. These feelings hardened when his younger brother, John, joined the Marines and was later killed in Vietnam.

The war shaped Kitson’s feelings. He committed that no veteran, regardless of tour of duty, should ever be forgotten by the public or other veterans.

Life grew increasingly difficult as Kitson encountered the hardships of veterans who could not find quality jobs. His family continued facing tragedy when another brother, Joseph, died in a car accident.

Married in 1969, Kitson worked in the bar business for over 10 years and had three children. In 1980, he was hired by the United States Postal Service. He was happier as this job provided more stability and insurance for his family. Kitson later became supervisor and postmaster for the Babylon Post Office, overseeing five buildings, four ZIP codes and 300 postal workers.

Kitson advocated for building the Suffolk County Vietnam Veterans Memorial Park at Bald Hill in Farmingville. He and his “Green Jackets” members of the Vietnam Veterans county chapter helped raise the $1.3 million to create this memorial structure seen from the Long Island Sound, the Atlantic Ocean and Connecticut.

Eighteen years after America pulled out of South Vietnam, Kitson’s group and local, state and federal officials unveiled this special monument on Nov. 11, 1991.

VFW Post 6249 Cmdr. Joe Cognitore, who grew up some 4 miles from Kitson in Farmingdale, marvels at his contributions.

Kitson “is a great guy who continually strives to care for veterans and to represent our citizens who fought in Vietnam decades ago,” Cognitore, also a Vietnam War vet, said. “He is an asset to the drive of this VFW to fulfill the needs of veteran causes in this community and nation.”

Kitson’s organization on Memorial Day reads the names of Vietnam veterans killed during the war from Suffolk County. Always understanding the importance of history, the Suffolk County chapter of Vietnam Veterans has been involved in teaching this conflict through classes at Ward Melville High School and the former Veterans Day program at Rocky Point High School. The group is always at the Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies held annually at Calverton National Cemetery.

Kitson, now 76, is the chief of community development and civic engagement at the Northport Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Helping veterans from World War II to the war on terror, he organizes transportation for vets to the hospital, offering guidance for tapping into government benefits.

During this holiday season, Kitson has already distributed hams and turkeys to feed needy veterans. A big, burly man with a voice reminiscent of actor Jack Nicholson’s, when one sees Kitson, one also receives a hearty hello, a big handshake and the question, “What can I do to help?”

For his valuable contributions through the Suffolk County chapter of Vietnam Veterans “Green Jackets” and his altruism and charity for local veterans, TBR News Media recognizes Richard Kitson as a 2023 Person of the Year.

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Seymour’s Boatyard owner, Dave Weber Jr. Photo by Sabrina Artusa

By Sabrina Artusa

The Village of Northport, known for its beautiful waterfront, thriving art sector and flourishing downtown, is widely appreciated by visitors and residents alike. Dave Weber Jr., a longtime resident, has consistently shown his love and appreciation for his community through fervent volunteerism, hands-on leadership and consideration for the overlooked.

Weber began his career in service as a junior firefighter in high school, following in his father’s footsteps, who was also a firefighter. After graduating from college and living briefly in Florida, Weber moved back to Northport, joined the fire department and took over Seymour’s Boatyard, which is listed in New York’s Historic Business Preservation Registry. Three years ago, he became a member of the village board of trustees.

One of Weber’s most consistent efforts has been fundraising for Paws of War, a nonprofit that trains shelter dogs as service dogs for veterans and first responders, like firefighters, who have physical or emotional traumas. This past summer, he raised over $15,000. The fundraiser was held alongside a free concert Weber organized in celebration of the Seymour’s Boatyard 100th anniversary.

He also raised money for the U.S. Coast Guard Chief Petty Officers Association when the status of their paychecks was uncertain. With community support, he raised money for gift cards to give to the officers at a dinner held at the firehouse.

“Not much is said of the Coast Guard, but they are one of the branches of service that should be taken care of. They are putting their life out on the line out there for others so we as community members should be taking care of them also,” Weber said. 

Veterans affairs has been a significant concern of Weber’s. New York has the fifth largest veteran population at 790,000, according to the New York Health Foundation. Veteran suicide rates are significantly higher than the general population.

He got close to the Coast Guard community after organizing a CrossFit workout fundraiser for Nate Bruckenthal, a young Coast Guardsman who was killed in the Iraq War in 2004.

Weber also started Cow Harbor Warriors, along with several others. Under the Cow Harbor Warriors, Weber arranged for veterans from Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom to visit Northport, where they enjoyed the water and attended a welcome dinner at the firehouse and a fundraising party. The goal was for the veterans, who came from across the tristate area, to feel appreciated.

Weber’s compassion is inexhaustible but is occasionally limited by external factors, such as participation, as was the case with the Cow Harbor Warriors, which, after several years of events, came to a halt.

“Everything revolves around volunteerism,” he said. “We come up with the ideas and put them to paper, but sometimes following through and executing is tough — it is definitely tough.” 

He continued, “We live in a picture-postcard community. It is a very giving community. All you have to do is look out the windows of my office to know that this is a very special place,” adding, “I feel lucky to be able to live here, and part of that is the ability to give back to the community.”

As Nicole Carey wrote in her nomination letter, “Often, if a person or an organization has an idea they want to bring forward, it is Dave they call.” She added, “He is the glue to all resources and often will help with the life of the project just because helping folks is second nature to him.”

For his continued dedication to his community, in both times of celebration and in times of need, Dave Weber is honored as a 2023 Person of the Year by TBR News Media.

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On July 25, Legislator Stephanie Bontempi (R – 18th L.D.) recognized Trisha Northover, pictured with her son Tristan, as this year’s Women Veterans Appreciation Day honoree for the 18th District. Photo from Leg. Bontempi's office

By Rita J. Egan

One local veteran has come a long way since she left Afghanistan, and she credits the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, the local American Legion Post and her nursing career for her success.

U.S. Army veteran Trisha Northover spent her younger years traveling between her dad’s home in Kingston, Jamaica, and her mom’s in Greenlawn after her parents’ divorce. She said in her early 20s, a friend’s father, a firefighter, died on Sept. 11, and the effect that his passing had on her friend helped Northover find her passion.

Photo from Trisha Northover

“I saw the impact that it had in her life,” the veteran said. “She became a totally different person after she lost her dad, and I wanted to do something.”

At 24, she joined the army. Interested in a medical career, Northover said she learned everything she needed to know about medicine in the military. Initially, she studied basic EMT skills and then nursing. After 18 months of training, she became a licensed practical nurse.

She spent nine years and nine months in the army, primarily stationed at West Point, where she had her son Tristan, now 16. Working at the academy’s hospital and clinic, she cared for the cadets. 

Northover was deployed to Afghanistan for 10 months as a combat medic during Operation Enduring Freedom, and she said she witnessed back-to-back traumas during her deployment. For her service, she has received a Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, NATO Medal and Army Commendation Medal. For her unit’s service in Afghanistan, they received a Meritorious Unit Commendation award.

​American Legion

When she returned to Greenlawn, Northover said she learned firsthand how helpful American Legion Post 1244 members are. Struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder, Northover said it took some time to find a full-time job.

“I didn’t have a lot of support financially,” the veteran said. “I was still figuring it out.”

Northover added post members brought her and her son Thanksgiving dinner the first year she returned from Afghanistan. She soon became a post member, and recently, the 42-year-old was named post commander.

Being involved in a post and talking to fellow veterans who have had similar experiences is vital, Northover said. She described it as “a camaraderie like no other.” 

Photo from Trisha Northover

“We’re all being pulled in a million directions, but spending time in the company of the members of my posts, working for them, doing different things, it gives me a sense of purpose, and it honors my service if that makes sense,” she said. “It gives me an outlet for my service because a lot of times when you come back, you feel like you’re not a part of a team anymore, and being in the American Legion absolutely gives me the feeling of being a member of a team and working toward a mission.”

With her membership in the American Legion post and her job as a licensed practical nurse at the Long Island State Veterans Home at Stony Brook University, Northover has the opportunity to meet older vets. She said she always does her best to take photos and converse with them. She always thanks them for their service, especially World War II vets.

“These men are living history,” she said. “We study the war in the history books, and so much in the world literally changed because of that war, and to be with the men who were fighting — they’re leaving us. They’re not going to be here forever.”

While she still experiences tremendous anxiety, which made working at other jobs difficult at times, she said the veterans home has been a supportive place to work as they understand her PTSD.

Getting help

In addition to being able to talk with fellow vets at the American Legion and at her job, Northover credits Veterans Affairs for helping her manage her disorder with different types of therapy, from talk therapy to acupuncture. The disorder, she said, is a result of her time in Afghanistan.

“It was something that I’ve had to really work on to be able to not only talk about, but to not feel a certain way when I even talk about it,” Northover said.

She added the post-traumatic growth she has gone through has made her more resilient. “I know that I survived that so there’s not much that I can’t overcome,” the vet said.

Northover said the VA has realized traditional treatments aren’t for everybody, and patients can receive treatment outside of the VA hospital, including equine therapy and working with service animals.

“I don’t think a lot of people realize that they can change the quality of their life,” she said. “We can’t necessarily not have PTSD or not have insomnia or the trauma, but you can get to a point in your life where you can live a life that’s still full and purposeful if you really just accept the help that is offered.”

Validation

At the end of July, Northover was among fellow women veterans recognized at the Suffolk County Legislature’s General Meeting in Hauppauge. She said she was honored and humbled.

Trisha Northover and Leg. Stephanie Bontempi

“These women have done so many wonderful things not only in their personal and military lives but for their community, so it was really great to be honored,” she said. 

Northover discovered she was chosen when a member of Suffolk County Legislator Stephanie Bontempi’s (R-Centerport) staff emailed her. Northover was nominated by Mary Flatley, a fellow American Legion Post 1244 member and a former recipient of the same county honor. 

Flatley described Northover as a fantastic person with many great ideas for the post. “She’s a very grounded person and selfless,” she said. “I’m happy she’s our commander.”

She added, “I think Trisha is going to prove herself as an outstanding leader.”

In a statement, Leg. Bontempi said, “When I learned about Trisha’s accomplishments as a soldier and her dedication to helping her fellow veterans, I knew she had to be this year’s honoree. Trisha served our country with distinction, and to this day she is making a difference in many lives.”

Northover said it’s an honor when people thank her for her service, and the recognition from the county made her feel that her service was validated even further. 

“I had to reconcile a lot of things, and if it was worth it, within my own self, to go through what I went through in terms of the war,” the veteran said. “Having moments like this have really reinforced to me that people are really grateful and thankful that I did what I did because I fought for freedom and America.”

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Army veteran Ludmilla Lamothe sits in her new car for the first time. Photo by David Luces

“I never win anything, I was in disbelief — ‘like me?,’” Ludmilla Lamothe, a U.S. Army veteran, said when she learned a couple of months ago she was nominated by local nonprofits Driving 4 Change and Soldiers’ Angels to receive a newly refurbished car as part of the  National Auto Body Council’s Recycled Rides Program.   

On May 14, representatives from Caliber Collision and GEICO handed Lamothe the keys to a 2013 Mazda 6.  

Ken Lalia from GEICO embraces Army veteran Ludmilla Lamothe. Photo by David Luces

The single mother of two, who was stationed in Alaska during her time in the Army, had been without a car for the past year and turned to using services like Uber and Lyft to get around, but it proved to be costly. 

“This will help so much, taking [my children] to the doctor when they need to, sometimes [before] I’d have to cancel things and change stuff around,” she said. “Now I can just get up and go, taking them to school and not worry about what ride I’m going to take and which one is the least expensive. Now I can just put some gas in my ride and go.” 

The donated car was restored by technicians at Caliber Collision in Rocky Point who volunteered their personal time to refurbish the vehicle for Lamothe. 

Vartan Jerian, director of operations for Caliber Collision New York Region, said it is part of the company’s culture to support veterans as well as the communities in which they work.

“It’s a good way for us to give back and show our appreciation for her service and everything she has done,” Jerian said. 

Jerian has been involved in about 30 of these events and said it has become near and dear to his heart as he himself served in the military. 

“Every person has a different story — It’s great to see the reactions, great to hear how it’s going to help them and their family out,” the director of operations said. “She is a well deserving person — we’re excited to do it.”

Ken Lalia, GEICO Auto Damage manager in Suffolk County, said he felt similarly. 

“It’s our way to give back to the community,” he said. “I feel honored to be able to give cars to military families in need.” 

Lamothe was also gifted a car booster seat and other supplies. Photo by David Luces

Lalia said GEICO has been involved in the recycled rides programs for the past 10 years and has given away hundreds of refurbished cars.  

As part of the program, collision industry companies collaborate to repair and donate vehicles to individuals and families in need of reliable transportation.

Lalia said their goal in this region is to give away 20 cars to individuals in need, and hopes it will make a lot of military families very happy. Lamothe was the fourth recipient of a car this year. 

The Huntington resident said she is so grateful and thankful for the car. Though her children couldn’t make it to the unveiling because of school, they were equally excited. 

“They wanted to be here, they were so excited — they were like ‘What’s it going to look like mom?,’” she said. “I’m probably going to surprise them and pick them up at school.”

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Family members of the late WWII veteran Michael Colamonico and elected officials stand together at the corner of McKay Road and Beau Lane in Huntington Station. Photo by Sara-Megan Walsh

Town of Huntington officials and veterans organizations gathered to give thanks for the lifelong work of a late Huntington Station World War II veteran for his commitment to the community.

McKay Road in Huntington Station was officially dedicated as “SSGT USAF Michael J. Colamonico Way” at its intersection with Beau Lane behind Huntington High School in a Nov. 24 ceremony. The signpost stands on the corner near where Colamonico lived with his wife, Lorraine, through his death in December 2013.

McKay Road was dedicated as USAF SSGT Michael J. Colamonico Way Nov. 24. Photo by Sara-Megan Walsh

“Mr. Colamonico dedicated his life to his family and veterans affair issues for active military and veterans,” Supervisor Chad Lupinacci (R) said.

Colamonico was drafted to serve in the U.S. Air Force during World War II where he was assigned a position as a turret gunner on a B-17 bomber. On Dec. 31, 1943, Colamonico was on his first mission — a 13-hour bombing run — when his plane was shot down by a German fighter plane over southern France, according to his son, Michael Jr. He was held as a prisoner of war at the infamous Stalag 17 in Austria for 17 months before being liberated in 1945.

While a prisoner, he wrote poetry and drew illustrations in a bound book he titled, “A Wartime Log,” which his son said is now cherished as a family heirloom.

Upon returning to the U.S., Colamonico settled in Huntington and became a charter member of the town’s Veterans Advisory Board. Its current board members made the request that his home street be dedicated in his name, which was approved by a unanimous vote of the Town Board at its July 17 meeting.

“He was always there for the people in the community, no one really realized the impact until he had passed,” his grandson Francis Fanzilli said. “We get so caught up in thinking of ourselves and the world, we forget the impact we can have on the people around us.”

Veterans gathered at the Nov. 24 dedication ceremony salute the flag during the national anthem. Photo by Sara-Megan Walsh

Colamonico volunteered at the Northport VA Medical Center helping and attending to injured veterans. He also was an active member of St. Patrick’s R.C. Church in Huntington, according to Father Michael Bissex.

“Michael loved the community he helped build, literally and figuratively,” Bissex said prior to blessing the sign.

Colamonico also served as a mentor to Huntington’s youth, in particular helping U.S. Army Capt. Michelle Mudge navigate her way through joining the armed services to become a pilot.

“He was a true mentor, he was one of the ones who believed in me from the time I was 15 years old,” she said. “ He pushed me through some dark times.”

Midge said she keeps a picture of Colamonico and his plane’s crew — that he once gave to her — on the mantle of her fireplace as a reminder. The captain believed her mentor would have been thrilled by the turnout at the dedication ceremony, and his wife agreed.

“I’m very honored and I know he would be, too,” she said. “I’m very happy to see him honored in this way.”

His wife spoke with family and friends with her arm stayed looped around the signpost long after the ceremony was over, as if holding onto a piece of her husband.

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Kings Park veteran Ernie Lanzer, on right, with his daughter, Claire, wrapped in his Quilt of Valor. Photo by Sara-Megan Walsh

Nearly 70 years later, a Kings Park resident has been recognized for his service in World War II for the first time.

At roughly 12:05 p.m. Oct. 19, former Setauket residents Linda and Larry Heinz presented U.S. Navy vet
Ernie Lanzer with a Quilt of Valor to honor his service to his country. Now 91 years old, Lanzer recounted his time in the service as he was wrapped in the 80-inch by 60-inch handmade blanket in the colors of red, white and blue.

Ernie Lanzer dressed in his U.S. Navy uniform circa World War II. Photo from Claire Lanzer

“That was a lifetime ago, it’s ancient history,” he said humbly. “I was only a kid when I went in, 17, maybe 18.”

Lanzer said he registered under the draft and been called to serve near the end of World War II. He recalled fondly his assignment to the U.S.S. Antietam, an Essex-class aircraft carrier, as first-class seaman with the title of aviation machinist mate. His ship was stationed in waters off China and Japan during the period of occupation following the war.

“It really got my life started with aircraft; I went from fixing propellers to working on F-105, a real modern-day jet bomber,” Lanzer said.

Upon leaving the U.S. Navy, he worked on various planes for Farmingdale-based Republic Aviation. In 1961, he would continue to build a legacy of service by joining Engine Company #2 of the Kings Park Fire Department. Lanzer rose up the ranks of the firehouse, serving as fire commissioner from 2000 to 2006.

While recognized by the Kings Park Fire Department for more than 50 years of service in 2010, Lanzer said he doesn’t remember ever being thanked for serving his country before.

“We consider it a privilege to honor you,” his certificate from the Quilts of Valor Foundation reads. “Though we may never know the extent of your sacrifice and services to protect and defend the United States of America, as an expression of gratitude we award you this Quilt of Valor.”

Ernie Lanzer’s Quilt of Valor as boxed up and shipped from former Setauket resident Linda Heinz. Photo by Sara-Megan Walsh

Heinz said she requested a quilt be made to recognize Lanzer for his legacy both of service to his country and community after she joined with the Quilts of Valor Foundation, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to “cover” all service members and veterans who are physically or psychologically wounded. It started in November 2003 when a quilt was presented to a young soldier from Minnesota who had lost his leg serving in Iraq, according to its website.

“It’s to give them comfort,” she said. “A handmade quilt will always give you comfort no matter who you are.”

Heinz is a member of a volunteer group that calls itself The Myrtle Beach Shore Birds, a group of quilters that has taken up the mission of the Quilts of Valor Foundation. Together, they presented 33 quilts to veterans at the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base July 3 and have made more than 1,400 such gifts since 2010.

There is no charge for a quilt and the organization openly accepts requests at www.qovf.org. The website also provides information for those willing to volunteer their time to make the quilts by supplying patterns and guidance.

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