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Veteran of the Year

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.”

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.”

 

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.