2011 veterans' hall of fame award recipients

8/6/2019 2011 Veterans' Hall of Fame Award Recipients

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VETERANSVETERANSN E W Y O R K S T AT E S E N A T EN E W Y O R K S T AT E S E N A T E

HALL OF FAMEHALL OF FAME

NICHOLAS A. VERZELLANick Verzella, of the Village of East Rochester, is Senator Jim Alesis honoree for the New York State SenateVeterans Hall of Fame.

Mr. Verzella is a member of the Greatest Generation, having served in World War II between 1944 and1946. After graduating from East Rochester High School, he was sent to Fort McClellan in Alabama forbasic training and then deployed to Europe, landing in Le Havre, France. In Europe, Mr. Verzella joined thefamed 78th Infantry Division, the Lighting Division, shortly after V-E Day, May 8, 1945. When the 78th In-fantry Division was inactivated a year later, Mr. Verzella was transferred to the 16th Constabulary Squadroncharged with the occupation of Berlin a post he held for nine months and rose to the rank of Sergeant.

Returning home from Europe, Mr. Verzella attended the State University of New York at Brockport, obtain-ing his Bachelors degree in Education in 1950, and his Masters degree in Administration in 1956. In 1950,he began a remarkable, thirty-nine year career in public education in East Rochester schools, receiving nu-merous accolades for his years as a teacher, administrator and coach.

In 1978 and 1983, Mr. Verzella was named by the New York State Department of Education, as a finalist forTeacher of the Year. In 1978, the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle wrote: His red, white and blue class-room looks like a shrine to American heroes and patriotism. Since his years in the service, Mr. Verzellahas been extremely passionate and committed to East Rochesters Gold Star Families, so that the residentsof his community will never forget the sacrifices of those East Rochester sons and daughters whose namesare forever engraved on the monuments at the Station of Heroes.

A longtime member of American Legion Post 1917 in East Rochester, and a perennial fixture as Masterof Ceremonies for the Villages Memorial Day and Veterans Day observances, Mr. Verzella has been twicenamed Post 1917 Legionnaire of the Year, and in 1997, was named Monroe County Legionnaire of the Yearfor his commitment to his fellow veterans.

NICHOLAS A. VERZELLA WAS NAMED TO

THE NEW YORK STATE VETERANS HALL OF

FAME BY SENATOR JAMES S. ALESI.




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PFC.

JAMES E. PREVETEPfc. James E. Prevete was born on January 19, 1982 and was killed on October 10, 2004 whilebravely serving our country in Operation Iraqi Freedom in Habbaniya, Iraq. Pfc. Prevete was as-signed to the 1st Battalion, 506th Infantry, A Company, based in Camp Greaves, Korea and waskilled in a military vehicle accident.

Pfc. Prevete was a lifelong resident of Whitestone, New York. He attended Holy Trinity ElementarySchool from June 1987 through June 1996 and then attended St. Francis Prep High School wherehe graduated in June 2000. He also briefly attended Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Con-necticut and Queens College prior to proudly joining the United States Army in November 2003.

He is remembered by his family and friends as a wonderful young man, dedicated to his family andwho lived and died as a person of high moral standards who found his true calling in the Army,which drew on the same sense of discipline and achievement that made him such a dedicatedfootball player. While in the Military he was awarded: Bronze Star, Good Conduct Medal, NationalDefense Service Medal, and Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terror-ism Service Medal, Korea Defense Service Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, and Expert WeaponsQualification - Rifle

As a tribute to his life, at his familys request, a portion of 5th Avenue between 147th and 149thStreet in Whitestone, New York was renamed to PFC James E. Prevete Avenue.

PFC. JAMES E. PREVETE WAS NAMED TO


FAME BY SENATOR TONY AVELLA.


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KARL R. ROHDEKarl R. Rohde is a highly decorated Vietnam combat veteran of the United States Army, a dedicatedservant of his community, and a resident of Carmel, NY. He and his wife of 37 years, Irene, have twochildren, Dori and Karl W., twin grandsons, Andrew and Robert Rohde, and a granddaughter, OliviaVenezia. Karl holds two Masters degrees in American History and Secondary Education, is a TownCouncilman for Kent, and is the Putnam County Historian. After 28 years, he retired from Local 1103Communications Workers of America, where he worked as Union Job Steward.

For his service to our nation, Karl has received the Silver Star, Combat Infantry Badge, M-16 ExpertRifleman Award, Army Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Ribbon, Good

Conduct Medal, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, and the New York State Conspicuous Service Cross.

As a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), American Legion, AMvets, Benevolent andProtective Order of Elks, Military Order of the Cootie, Americal Division Veterans Association, The 40& 8, Vietnam Veterans of America, and Marine Corps League, Karl is among the most prominent andactive veterans of the Hudson Valley. He is also the founding Chairman and present Vice Chairman ofthe Putnam County Joint Veterans Council, as well as the Chairman of the Putnam County VeteransMemorial Park Advisory Committee.

In his capacity for the VFW, Karl currently serves as State Quartermaster. He has previously served asthe New York State Commander, the Carmel VFW Commander, the Putnam County VFW Commander,the District #2 Commander, the State Legislative Chairman, and as a member of the National Legislative

Committee. Karl has twice been honored by the VFW as All State Post Commander, twice as All StateCounty Commander, and as All American State Commander. He is the publisher of the VFW Legislativee-newsletter. Additionally, Karl is the first recipient of the American Gold Star Mothers DistinguishedService Medal, and a recipient of the 2006 Norman Vincent Peale Outstanding Service Award.

KARL R. ROHDE WAS NAMED TO THE NEW

YORK STATE VETERANS HALL OF FAME BY

SENATOR GREG BALL.


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CHARLES A. EUSTISWorld War II Veteran, Charles A. Eustis, 88, was living in Pittsburgh, PA in November of 1942 when he wasdrafted. His first active duty date was December 7, 1942. Charles, and three of his brothers served in Europe.He was in the Army Infantry and faced combat during his time there.

Charles served in the 1st Battalion HQ Co 376 Infantry 94th Division. He trained in Camp Phillips, Kansas;Maneuvers in Tennessee, Camp McCain in Elliott, Mississippi; Camp Shanks in the Town of Orangetown, NY andthen spent 13 months in the European Theater of Operations. He was discharged after 2 years and 11 months.

Charles has received many awards both during and after combat, both from the United States and ForeignCountries including; the Expert Infantry Badge, Various fire arm awards, Wheeled Vehicle License, ExpertInfantry Medal, Good Conduct Medal, American Defense Medal, the Combat Infantry Award, EuropeanTheater of Operations with four Battle Stars: Normandy, Ardennes (Battle of the Bulge) Rhineland andCentral Europe, the Ruhr Pocket; two bronze stars, a Victory Medal, a Service Medal from New York, a Medalfor service with Valor from New York State; Occupation of Germany Medal, Award from the Province ofNormandy, the Cold War Medal from Czechoslovakia and the French Legion of Honor, which was presentedto him on Veterans Day 2011 at the French Embassy in New York City along with 21 other WWII Veterans.

In civilian life, Charles was Managing Editor of Automotive Publications for the Hearst Corporation. He hasfaithfully served his community in various capacities; President of Cub Scout Pack 125, Officer in the FirstPresbyterian Church, little league baseball coach, President of the West Nyack Free Library and Officer inthe Clarkstown Reformed Church.

Since retiring, Charles resides in Delhi, NY where he has been active in several missions of the FirstPresbyterian Church. He is a member of the Delaware County Historical Association, The Legacy Group, andThe American Legion Post 190; where he has held various appointed offices and for the past five years, hasassisted teachers in the Elementary Department of Delaware Academy with students who need assistancelearning to read.

CHARLES A. EUSTIS WAS NAMED TO THE

NEW YORK STATE VETERANS HALL OF

FAME BY SENATOR JOHN BONACIC.


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COLONEL

CHARLIE JOHNSONColonel Charlie Johnson was born and raised in a small rural town in Mississippi. He attended the UnitedStates Military Academy, West Point, NY and graduated in 1955. Commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant of Infantry,Colonel Johnson served 26 years in the US Army, retiring in 1981.

During his Army career, his assignments were primarily in the troop leading positions, but also includedtwo tours at his Alma Mater. First, he served in the West Point Physical Education Department, and laterhe returned to serve in the Intercollegiate Athletics Department. Colonel Johnson served three tours ofduty in Vietnam as a Vietnamese Ranger Advisor, an Operations Officer in the Special Operations Group andas a Light Infantry Battalion Commander. His military education includes the Infantry Officers Basic andAdvanced Courses, the Command and General Staff College, the Army War College, Airborne and Ranger

Schools and the Pathfinder Course. He has graduate degrees from Columbia University and Penn StateUniversity.

Since arriving in the Capital District in 1999, Colonel Johnson has been active in community service. Thisincludes the Troy Mayors Ethics Committee, Board of Trustees of Oakwood Cemetery, Habitat for Humanityand the NYS Governors Commission for State Veteran Cemeteries. He is a member of the Tri County CouncilVietnam Era Veterans, American Legion Post 1610, VFW Post 8444, and Stratton VA Medical Center VolunteerDAV Van Driver.

As the Endowment Chairman of the Tri County Council Vietnam Era Veterans, he has obtained an endowmentof over $100,000 to fund scholarships for veterans at Hudson Valley, Schenectady, and Adirondack CommunityColleges. He also obtained this for students at Russell Sage who are studying nursing, physical therapy, andoccupational therapy.

Colonel Johnson is the past Grand Marshall of the Albany Veterans Day Parade in 2008 and is this yearsGrand Marshall of the Memorial Day in Lansingburgh.

Colonel Johnson is married to Trudy Hall, Head of Emma Willard School. He has three children, Sam, USArmy Colonel, Joe, a resident at Baddour Memorial Center in Senatobia, MS, and Wendy a fabric designerin Providence, Rhode Island.

COLONEL CHARLIE JOHNSON WAS NAMED

TO THE NEW YORK STATE VETERANS HALL

OF FAME BY SENATOR NEAL BRESLIN.


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HOWARD GOLDINHoward Goldin was born in Bridgeport, CT on September 5, 1947. The Goldin family moved to Rock-land County, NY where Howard spent his childhood and attended Spring Valley High School. In 1967,he was drafted into the U.S. Army by Local Board 13, Nyack.

Howard served as an Infantry Sergeant in Vietnam. During his distinguished service to the UnitedStates, he suffered multiple gunshot wounds and was awarded the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star,the Combat Infantry Badge Vietnam Service Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal and theNew York State Conspicuous Service Cross for his actions and valor.

Howard became Chief of Police for the Spring Valley Police Department. Throughout his exemplarycareer and subsequent retirement Chief Goldin has been involved with many veteran, civic and pro-fessional organizations, including the Vietnam Veterans of America, of which he is past President, thedisabled American Veterans, Military Order of the Purple Heart, Jewish War Veterans, American Le-gion, 25th Infantry Division, Advisory Board Member for the NY & NJ Vietnam Memories: Stories Leftat The Wall Project, Rockland County Chiefs of Police Association, the Rockland County DetectivesBenevolent Association and he served as past Chair of the Rockland County Police Academy Zone 4Training Council.

Since 1990, Chief Goldin has been an involved and hard-working member of the Spring Valley Rotary,serving as their president from 1995-1996. He created and helped to fund an international DAREProject with the Jamaican Constabulary Force to benefit youth in Kingston, Jamaica, WI.

Former infantry Sergeant Howard Goldin makes his home in Airmont, NY with his wife Doris. He isthe father of two and has one grand-daughter.

HOWARD GOLDIN WAS NAMED TO THE NEW


SENATOR DAVID CARLUCCI.


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CHARLES J. MURPHYCharles Murphy was born in Syracuse, New York, on April 10, 1949 and died on February 23,2011. He grew up in North Syracuse, New York, and in 1967, he joined the U.S. Army.

Sergeant Major Murphy served honorably in both the Vietnam and Desert Storm conflicts andretired from the U.S. Army in 1991 as an Operations Sergeant Major after 24 years of service.

During his distinguished career of military service to the United States, Sergeant Major Mur-phy was awarded two Purple Hearts, the Bronze Star, the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross

Unit Citation, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Conspicuous Service Star and the ConspicuousService Cross for his actions and valor.

Upon returning to Syracuse, he continued to dedicate his life to serving the public. He was asecurity chief at The Hotel Syracuse for many years, and then served for nine years as a legis-lative aide to Senator John A. DeFrancisco. In his role as legislative aide, he devoted his timeto helping countless veterans, senior citizens and other constituents.

Sergeant Major Murphy is survived by his daughter Dana Murphy of Germany; two grandsons,Joel and Lennard; sisters, Janet M. Franklin, Janice M. Smith and Patricia M. Herr; brothers,Daniel E. and Robert J. Murphy and several nieces and nephews.

CHARLES J. MURPHY WAS NAMED TO THE


FAME BY SENATOR JOHN A DeFRANCISCO.


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PETE LEONWhile in the military, Mr. Leon was awarded numerous medals for his service and achievements. Duringan overseas military exercise, Mr. Leon suffered burns over 76% of his body while risking his life tosave the life of another soldier when a heater exploded in a tent. Doctors thought Mr. Leons militarycareer was over. Though he was badly burned, his dedication to this great nation was stronger, and Mr.Leon returned stateside and went on to jump school at Ft. Benning, Georgia.

After completing the rigorous training at Ft. Benning, Mr. Leon was off to Ft. Bragg, North Carolina, homeof the 82nd Airborne Division. After numerous years on two hour recall to be the first to defend our flagand freedom, Mr. Leon left the military and became a teamster with the AFL-CIO and began working for

Roadway Express. Mr. Leon worked a late shift so that he could volunteer his services to his communityby being a volunteer interpreter in the hospitals and courtroom during the day and weekends.

Mr. Leon attended the University of North Carolina and shortly thereafter began his career withUnitedHealthcare and returned to Bushwick. After nearly a decade of promoting health and wellnesswith UnitedHealthcare, he joined Amerigroup of New York as Director of Business Development, wherehe continues to provide real solutions in health care to all New Yorkers.

Mr. Leon is on the board of the North Brooklyn YMCA. Every year, as Thanksgiving and the holidaysapproach, Mr. Leon participates in a food and coat drive, providing much needed assistance to thosein need. Mr. Leon has been recognized by the United States Congress, the New York City Council, theBrooklyn borough president, and Paul J Cooper Center for Human Services for his commitment to

community and promotion of health and wellness.

PETE LEON WAS NAMED TO THE NEW


SENATOR MARTIN MALAVE DILAN.


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MARTIN TREATMartin Treat served as a Specialist in the Army Air Cavalry during the Vietnam War and receivedService, Commendation and Air Medals for honorable and meritorious performance of his duty. Hisservice to his country did not end after he returned home from Vietnam in 1970, as he has dedicatedhimself to his community both in his professional life and in his volunteer activities ever since.

After receiving an MFA in Acting from the University of Oregon, Martin became both an actor,performing in countless theater, television and film productions, and a theater arts teacher, workingfor decades in New York City high schools. Martin has also been extremely active in his Hells

Kitchen neighborhood. Not only does he serve as a member of Manhattan Community Board 4, buthe is also is an active member, along with his wife Kathleen, of the Hells Kitchen NeighborhoodAssociation, and he is a co-founder of the Clinton/Hells Kitchen Coalition for Pedestrian Safety.For many years, Martin has been a tireless advocate for pedestrian safety in his neighborhood andthe entire city.

Martin was deeply affected by his service in Vietnam and has been a longtime member of VietnamVeterans Against the War and Veterans for Peace. In 2003, he wrote a one-man show, which hehas performed across the United States, based on the columns of renowned World War II warcorrespondent Ernie Pyle. Martin credited Pyles columns with first instilling in him the idea thatone should honor the warrior and not the war. Martin has consistently fought for the rights andneeds of veterans as well as for peace and social and economic justice for all people.

For his deep and abiding commitment and service to his country and his community, Martin Treatis exceptionally worthy of his place in the New York State Veterans Hall of Fame.

MARTIN TREAT NAMED TO THE NEW YORK

STATE VETERANS HALL OF FAME BY

SENATOR THOMAS K. DUANE.


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MERLIN GERMANMerlin German, a United States Marine Sergeant in Iraq, became a symbol of recovery throughout theworld, soon known as the Miracle Marine, during the 17 months he spent hospitalized following ablast in 2005. Sergeant German eventually regained the ability to walk, and set up a charity for childburn victims. Sadly, just over three years after the blast, he died following a minor skin graft surgery.

Sergeant German enlisted in the Marine Corps September 8, 2003 and received a meritorious promotionto Private First Class (PFC) out of boot camp. From there, he transferred to his first permanent dutystation, 5th Battalion, 11th Marines, 1st Marine Division where he served as a Field Artillery Cannoneer.In September 2004, he deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. His unit became part of

Weapons Platoon for convoy security. They were in charge with safely transporting prisoners and cargo.Sergeant German and his unit participated in over 150 successful missions and he was applauded forhis keen ability to spot improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

On February 21, 2005, Sergeant Germans life changed when, on a mission, he spotted an IED with notime to alert the driver. The blast blew Sergeant German of the vehicle, and his fellow Marines helpedextinguish the flames that had already burned 97% of his total body surface area. His life was cut shortin 2008 after surgery to graft skin onto his lip.

Before passing away in 2008 from complications in a skin graft surgery, Sergeant German founded theMerlins Miracles charity organization, to help child burn victims. In his memory, the Wounded WarriorRegiment renamed its call-in help center at the Marine Corps Base in Quantico after Sergeant German

on December 4, 2008.

MERLIN GERMAN WAS NAMED TO THE NEW


SENATOR ADRIANO ESPAILLAT.


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JAMES A. WILSONJames A. Wilson, of Schenectady, enlisted in the U.S. Navy in December 1944. Four of his brothersserved in the U.S. Army. He achieved the rank of Yeoman Second Class, was honorably dischargedon July 14, 1949, and received the Good Conduct Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern CampaignMedal, World War II Victory Medal and Navy Occupation Medal.

Jim has dedicated himself to assisting fellow veterans, including serving for many years as Director ofthe Schenectady County Veterans Service Agency before his retirement.

Jim has contributed his time to countless veteran organizations and causes. Since 1995, he has been

Chairman of the V.A. National Cemetery Saratoga Support Committee. He has been a 35-year volunteerat the Samuel S. Stratton Medical Center and, for the past 30 years has coordinated the decoration ofveterans graves at 31 cemeteries in Schenectady County.

Jim served seven terms as President of the Schenectady County Council of Veterans Organizations, andhas been honored as an All American VFW District Commander. He has been a member of numerousorganizations, such as the New York State Veterans Advisory Committee, AMVETS, 369th VeteransAssociation, Non- Commissioned Officers Association, American Legion, Navy Memorial, USS LittleRock Association, Sampson Navy World War II Association and Polish American Vets.

Jim has also been active in many other civic organizations, including the United Way, Red Cross blooddonor, Ingersoll Home and the Rotterdam Elks, where he was the longtime Flag Day Chairman.

Jim and his wife, Antoinette, are the proud parents of five children, and have been blessed with 13grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

JAMES A. WILSON WAS NAMED TO THE NEW


SENATOR HUGH FARLEY.


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WILLIAM BEATTYMr. William Beatty of Centereach served in the United States Army during the Korean War and is thehonoree of Senator John J. Flanagan. His selection is based on the nomination from the administra-tion of the Long Island State Veterans Home (LISVH) in Stony Brook.

Mr. Beatty served as a Corporal in the 40th Infantry Division, 160th Infantry Regiment as part ofthe Regimental Combat Team and saw action in the Iron Triangle the area in Korea bounded byChorwon, Kumhwa, and Pyonggang.

Following his honorable service, Mr. Beatty dedicated himself to helping other veterans with an em-

phasis on those who call the Long Island State Veterans Home in Stony Brook their home. He hasbeen a member of the LISVHs Veterans Advisory Board since 1999 and has been its chairman for thepast eight years.

For over fifteen years, Mr. Beatty has been serving as the 2nd Vice President for Korean War Veter-ans, Central Long Island Chapter, and he has been an active member of the Advisory Board of theSuffolk County Veterans Service Agency for the past 20 years.

Mr. Beattys most enduring legacy to the veterans of Long Island was in the creation, developmentand design of the Suffolk County Gold Star Memorial in Armed Forces Plaza in Hauppauge. This me-morial serves as a lasting tribute to the families that have lost a loved one in service to our country.

In addition to his work on behalf of fellow veterans, Mr. Beatty was a 25 year employee of the LongIsland Rail Road and is a dedicated volunteer to St. Margaret of Scotland Church in Selden.

Mr. Beatty is proud to share this honor with his wife of 56 years, Veronica.

WILLIAM BEATTY WAS NAMED TO THE NEW


SENATOR JOHN FLANAGAN.


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BRIGADIER GENERAL

GEORGE A. JONESBrigadier General George A. Jones has spent nearly his entire life serving his country and community.His service began in 1939, at age 16, when he enlisted in the New York National Guard. He entered theregular Army in 1941, rose to the rank of 2nd Lieutenant in 1942, and fought in both the European andPacific Theatres during World War II.

General Jones returned to the National Guard in 1946 but reentered active duty for the Korean War,commanding an artillery battery. He returned to the National Guard in 1952, where he served another18 years before retiring as a Brigadier General.

General Jones served outside the military as well. He was a 20 year member of the New York City FireDepartment and the first president of the Vulcan Society, the nations first organization of African-American firefighters. He spent over 30 years working for Nassau County, promoting employment andentrepreneurial opportunities for minorities and individuals with disabilities. He recently concluded 18years as Board Chairman of the Urban League of Long Island.

A decorated veteran, General Jones earned the following awards: American Defense Service Medal;American Campaign Medal; Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal; World War II Victory Medal; European-African-Middle Eastern Theatre Medal with 2 stars; Japan Occupation Medal; Korean Service Medalwith 2 brass stars; and U.N. Service Medal. He also wrote a book, The Character of Leadership whichchronicles his combat experiences.

General Jones and his wife, Eunice, reside in Roosevelt and are proud parents, grandparents, andgreat-grandparents.

BRIGADIER GENERAL GEORGE A. JONES

WAS NAMED TO THE NEW YORK STATE

VETERANS HALL OF FAME BY SENATOR

CHARLES J. FUSCHILLO, JR.


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CORPORAL

MARK P. OBRIENCorporal Mark P. OBrien served two distinguished tours of duty as a United States Marine, the latterof which was during arguably the most dangerous period of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Since returningto civilian life, Corporal OBriens actions and attitude off the battlefield continue to make his family,friends, community, country, and corps proud.

Corporal OBrien first joined the Marines in 2001. At that time, he was working towards a degree incriminal justice to possibly pursue a future career in law enforcement, like other members of his family.

During his second tour in November of 2004, while conducting a weapons sweep through a city in Iraq

that was geographically located within a particularly hostile area known as the Triangle, CorporalOBrien was struck by a rocket propelled grenade. The injuries sustained forced the amputation of oneof his arms and one of his legs.

After treatment abroad and at military hospitals stateside, Corporal OBrien returned home, where hemarried and started a family. He also began his new career as an emergency dispatcher for the ErieCounty Sheriffs Office, continuing to protect and serve the public.

For his distinguished service to the United States, Corporal OBrien, has been awarded the NavyAchievement Medal, the Navy Accommodation Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, andthe Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, among other decorations.

He and his wife Michelle live in Marilla, with their two young children, Jack and Nathan.

CORPORAL MARK P. OBRIEN WAS NAMED


OF FAME BY SENATOR PAT GALLIVAN.


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GEORGE R.

BROADHEADGeorge R. Broadhead was born in Brooklyn in 1932. He and his family moved to Gerritsen Beach, fromPark Slope, when he was six. In 1951, George enlisted in the U. S. Marine Corps and served in theKorean War. As a Corporal, he was awarded the Silver Star Medal for his gallantry in action, as well asa Purple Heart Medal and additional awards.

Retired on disability from the military, he re-started his college studies at St. Johns University inBrooklyn in 1956. As a student, he worked at Macys in their advertising department for four years. In1960, he began in earnest a lifetime in publishing, starting as a newsletter editor for The McGraw-HillPublishing Company in New York. From there he became a copywriter at Bear Advertising, which led

to a move to the Los Angeles Herald Examiner. He returned to New York, and moved into advertisingsales with Billboard Magazine Publications.

In 1973, George married and moved to Fairfield, Connecticut and started a family. At the time he wasDirector of Sales and Marketing for NY State Food Merchants Association, before joining NewhouseNewspapers in New York in 1984. In 1989 he was promoted to West Coast Manager for NewhouseNewspapers, in Beverly Hills, California. In 1999, George retired from Newhouse Newspapers andreturned to Gerritsen Beach.

A lifetime member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and the VFW, he was Post Commanderof VFW Post 107 from 2005 until 2008, and Kings County Commander for two terms in 2007 and 2008.Currently George is President of the Gerrittsen Beach Property Owners Association, Inc.

GEORGE R. BROADHEAD WAS NAMED TO


FAME BY SENATOR MARTIN GOLDEN.


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MICHAEL

LEWANDOWSKIMichael Lewandowski was born in Amherst on December 12, 1982. Michael spent his childhood in Cheektowagaand attended Kenmore West High School. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps Reserve in February 2003after receiving his Associates Degree from Erie Community College in Buffalo. He was sent to boot camp in May2003 in Parris Island, South Carolina for 13 weeks. After completing his first year of studies at Hilbert College inHamburg, he completed eight weeks of infantry school at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina.

He withdrew from the Fall 2004 school semester and traveled to southern California for infantry specialty schoolfor two weeks and then traveled to North Carolina for Arabic Language Course for three weeks.

His reserve unit was activated on January 3, 2005 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He trained in southern

California for two months before being deployed to Iraq in Al Anbar Providence for seven months. In October, hereturned home and received an Honorable Discharge in December 2005.

In May 2009 he received a tentative selection for a job with the Department of Homeland Security, Customs andBorder Protection as a customs officer. He went to Camp Lejeune in North Carolina in March 2010 for advancedInfantry training for two weeks. In May 2010 he volunteered to be activated in support of Operation EnduringFreedom. He trained in Camp Pendleton California for three months and then was deployed to Helmand ProvidenceAfghanistan for seven months.

He has received numerous awards for his military service, including a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal,a Combat Action Ribbon and was twice selected for a Marine Corps Reserve Medal for good conduct. He alsoreceived a National Defense Medal, an Afghanistan Campaign Medal, an Iraqi Campaign Medal, a Global War onTerrorism Service Medal. Two Sea Service Deployment Ribbons, two Armed Force Reserve Medals, a NATO Medal

and three letters of appreciation.

Michael is currently on active duty with the rank of sergeant until June 5, 2011. He is anticipating a HonorableDischarge later on this year.

He makes his home in the City of Tonawanda.

MICHAEL LEWANDOWSKI WAS NAMED TO


FAME BY SENATOR MARK GRISANTI.


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SERGEANT MAJOR

JACKIE L. WILSONSergeant Major Jackie L. Wilson had a distinguished 24 year career in the United States Army Reserve.During his service, Mr. Jackson led his men on and off the battlefield. He served active duty in OperationDesert Shield/Desert Storm 1990-1991, and was also called to active duty for Freedom Iraq but wasunable to be mobilized due to his health. Mr. Wilson was forced to retire due to medical reasons.

During his illustrious service in the United States Army Reserve, Mr. Wilson received many awards anddecorations including: the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army ComponentsMedal 1st OLC, National Defense Service Medal, South West Asia Service Medal, W/3 Bronze ServiceStars, Kuwait Liberation Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, NCO Professional Development Ribbon

with Number 4 Device, and the Army Service Ribbon.

Mr. Wilson is a pillar of his community of Laurelton, New York, and is known in the surroundingneighborhoods as someone who is always willing to help. He is the Jr. Vice Commander of Post 5298VFW and works with the Post Youth Recreation Program. He also served as an Auxiliary Police Officerfor the Laurelton community (105th Pct).

For his community service Mr. Wilson has been recognized by local officials and many communityorganizations. He received the Man of the Year Award from the National Association of Negro Businessand Professional Women and the Youth Mentoring Award. He is truly a person of tremendous character,poise, and great generosity.

SERGEANT MAJOR JACKIE L. WILSON



SHIRLEY L. HUNTLEY.


18/46



GENERAL

JOHN T. DIGILIO, JR.General Digilio grew up in Bay Shore, NY, graduating from Bay Shore High School, and earned BA and MBA degrees. Hewas commissioned a Second Lieutenant in 1967 from LaSalle Universitys artillery ROTC program, entered active dutyin 1969 and served as Executive Officer and Detachment Commander, US Army Hospital, Sierra Army Depot, Herlong,CA. In 1970, he was transferred to the 95th Evacuation Hospital, DaNang, Republic of Viet Nam.

Shortly after his return from Viet Nam, he joined the New York Army National Guard. He has held numerous commandand staff positions including Commander, 244th Medical Group, a Contingency Force Pool unit under the 44th MedicalBrigade (Airborne), XVIII Airborne Corps (Fort Bragg, NC). In July 1997, Digilio lead a team of military and civilianexperts to Montevideo, Uruguay to train that countrys senior civilian and military personnel on the health aspects ofnatural and man-made disaster preparedness.

General Digilio is a graduate of the U.S. Army War College, the Command and General Staff College, and the NationalSecurity Management Program and the Reserve Component National Security Course of the National Defense University.Has been awarded over 24 decorations, including the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Unit Citation,Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm, and the New York Army National Guard Conspicuous Service Medal.

He is the first member of the New York Army National Guard to be inducted into the Order of Military Medical Merit, U.S.Army Medical Department; the first recipient of the Colonel Gouverneur Morris Citizen Soldier Award presented by theAdjutant General of the State of New York. In 1997, he received the prestigious Joel T. Boone Award presented by theAssociation of Military Surgeons of the United States (AMSUS). He was invested into the Sovereign Military Order ofthe Temple of Jerusalem (Knight Templars) and holds the dignity of Grand Croix (GCTJ) and is prior of the Priory of St.Patrick in the Hudson Valley. He is listed in Whos Who in America.

He was the national commander of La Socit des Quarante Hommes et Huit Chevaux(Forty and Eight) in 2003; a pastcommander, Bay Shore American Legion Post #365, a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the MilitaryOrder of the Cooties.

General Digilio is married to the former Dianne Pilgrim, of Delhi, NY and they reside in Bay Shore, NY. In the civiliansector, Digilio is the administrator of the Bishop C.W. MacLean Nursing Home, Far Rockaway, NY.

His numerous community activities include being a past chairman of the Board of Directors, Long Island Chapter of theArthritis Foundation; a trustee of the Childrens Leukemia Research Association; and a past first vice president of theBrightwaters Lions Club and the Bay Shore Lions Club.

GENERAL JOHN T. DIGILIO, JR. WAS NAMED


OF FAME BY SENATOR OWEN H. JOHNSON.


19/46



SANDRA

JABLONSKI BOURQUESandra Jablonski Bourque was born in Buffalo, New York. She graduated from the State University of NewYork at Buffalo in 2003 with a Bachelors Degree in Sociology. After working in the mental health field,Sandra enlisted in the Army in August of 2006, and went to Fort Jackson, South Carolina for Basic Training.

After completion of Basic Training, Sandra went to Fort Lee, Virginia for Advanced Individual Trainingwhere she was selected as the Distinguished Honor Graduate in her class. Following AIT, Sandra wentto Fort Benning, Georgia for training as a paratrooper. She was one of 15 women in a class of 400soldiers. After she earned her parachutist badge, Sandra went to Fort Bragg, North Carolina and servedas a Specialist in the 82nd Airborne Division, 407th Brigade Support Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat

Team. Upon arrival at Fort Bragg, Sandras unit, Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC), wasdeployed to Iraq.

As soon as transport was available, Sandra went to Camp Taji in Iraq and was stationed there fromJune 2007- April 2008. Her Military Operations Specialty was supply, but she volunteered to go out onnight missions with the Protective Service Detail Team to work on projects in Sadr City and to monitorinsurgent activity.

After returning to Fort Bragg from Iraq, Sandra was promoted to Sergeant and was then honorablydischarged in September, 2009. She received the Good Conduct Medal, the Iraqi Campaign Medal withcampaign star, the Global War on Terrorism Medal, Army Achievement Medal, National Defense ServiceMedal and the Army Commendation Medal.

Sandra is currently employed as a Management and Program Assistant with the federal governmentsDepartment of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services in Buffalo, New York.She volunteered as a mentor for the Veterans Treatment Court in Buffalo prior to being hired by thefederal government. Sandra met her husband, Jason, while stationed in Iraq and they now reside inDepew, New York with their 2 year old son. Jason continues to serve in the Army Reserve.

SANDRA JABLONSKI BOURQUE WAS NAMED

TO THE NEW YORK STATE VETERANS

HALL OF FAME BY SENATOR TIMOTHY M.

KENNEDY.


20/46



EUGENE BRYANTEugene Bryant has earned a place of distinction among the State of New Yorks Veterans in recognitionof his meritorious military service and his tireless advocacy on behalf of his fellow veterans. Mr. Bryantserved his nation admirably in two separate branches of The United States Military during the VietnamWar. He served the United States Army from 1959 - 1960 in Vietnam where he attained the rank ofCorporal and then again in the United States Marine Corp from 1961 1964 in Vietnam attaining therank of Sergeant and serving two tours.

During his military service to our country he received the National Defense Service Medal, the VietnamService Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal with 2 O/S Bars and a Good Conduct Medal.

Mr. Bryant, an active advocate for veterans issues, has diligently served veterans causes in manyVFW capacities and committees including: National Deputy Chief of Staff, National Aide-De-Camp,Chairman of N.Y. State Homeless Vet, Vice Chairman of N.Y. State Membership, All State PostCommander, Commander of District Two, All State County Commander, Westchester County Chaplainand Quartermaster, Advisory Committee Chairman of Westchester County, a Member of the LegislativeCommittee and Chairman of the Agent Orange Committee. Currently, he is the Post Commander ofthe Aaron A. Lewis #6396 VFW in Mount Vernon.

In addition to his VFW interests, Mr. Bryant also serves as the President of the Huguenot Lions Club ofNew Rochelle, a member of the New Rochelle Waterfront Advisory Committee and Coach New RochelleYouth Tackle League.

In addition to his many civic and VFW interests Eugene enjoys many hobbies and spending time with hiswife of 50 years, Nannie Bryant, his children and grandchildren. Commander Bryant is so dedicated toserving his fellow veterans that he is lovingly known to his family as the veterans veteran.

EUGENE BRYANT WAS NAMED TO THE NEW


SENATOR JEFFREY KLEIN.


21/46



JORDAN

CZERNIAWSKIJordan Czerniawski, February 12, 1931 December 10, 2010A dedicated veterans advocate and loving family man.

Jordan Czerniawski was proud to be an American and was proud to have gotten the chance to fight for his country.Drafted in December 1951, just a year after marrying his neighborhood sweetheart, Phyllis, Czerniawski enteredthe Army on January 10, 1952 and headed to Fort Dix for training. He remained in Fort Dix eight months, longerthan expected after being slowed by a hernia operation, necessitated by lugging around 100-plus pound sacks ofpotatoes. Czerniawski shipped out to Korea in September 1952 to join the Korean War. Overseas, Czerniawski waspromoted to platoon sergeant of the 223rd Infantry Regiment of the 40th Division and it became his job to keep his

troop of 20 men physically fit, up to date on their weapons and familiar with security practices like listening postsand patrols. Czerniawski was discharged as a sergeant on October 23, 1953.

Czerniawski was commander of Blazing Star Post, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Travis, and a former chaplain andfirst vice president of Cpl. Allan F. Kivlehan Chapter, Korean War Veterans of America. Always proud to march inparades on Staten Island, he thought it was important to let people know that veterans are still around.

Mr. Czerniawskis service was rewarded with a half dozen medals. He received the United Nations Service Medal,The National Defense Medal, the New York State Medal, the Korean War Veteran Ambassador for Peace Medaland the Combat Infantrymans Badge, of which he was most proud. In June of 2000, Czerniawski was honored witha medal from the Korean Ambassador during a ceremony at the Korean War Veteran Memorial in ManhattansBattery Park.

Czerniawski met his wife, Phyllis, when they were both just 14 years old in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. They marriedat 20 and were together for almost 60 years. Phyllis was always the wind beneath his wings. Together they havethree daughters. Czerniawski loved his daughters, Nancy, Vanessa and Stacey with all his heart and had a veryspecial and unique bond with each one of them.

His love for his four grandchildren, Jillien, Jordan, Joseph and Dylan was immeasurable. They brought great joyto his life.

He was loved much and is missed more so. JORDAN CZERNIAWSKI WAS NAMED TO


FAME BY SENATOR ANDREW LANZA.


22/46



WILLIAM O. STRATISWilliam O. Stratis was born on May 25, 1926 in Newburgh, New York. After growing up and attendingschool in Newburgh, he graduated from Newburgh Free Academy in June of 1944 with honors. In Augustof 1944 he reentered military service and took Infantry Basic Training at Camp Croft in Spartanburg,South Carolina.

Mr. Stratis saw combat in Europe, France, Belgium and Germany. He was captured and taken Prisoner ofWar while in Germany and was held for over two months at Stalag 6A in Hemer Germany near Dortmund.

Mr. Stratis was wounded twice and received the Purple Heart for his injuries. He was also awarded

the Combat Infantry Badge and Bronze Star for his actions. He returned to the United States to trainrecruits and then went on to Fort Knox to serve in a field demonstration unit for visiting VIPs.

He served two years of active duty in the Army and attained the rank of Sergeant before his discharge.Taking advantage of the GI bill, he attended Rider University and graduated with a Bachelor of Sciencedegree in Business Administration. He consistently made the Deans List and owing to his hard work,completed his four year degree in three years.

After college, Ms. Stratis went to work for Chester Cable and then for IBM for 34 years. After takingadvantage of early retirement, he became a Financial Planner, became a member of the American Ex-Prisoners of War and studied to become a Certified National Service Officer. Mr. Stratis selflessly givesof his time volunteering five days a week at Castle Point Veterans Hospital, helping process claimsfor veterans and their spouses. Every year, over 4 million dollars goes to the families he has assisted

through his volunteer work at Castle Point.

Mr. Stratis makes his home in New Windsor, New York and has been married to his wife, Joyce, for 54years. They have four daughters and seven grandchildren.

WILLIAM O. STRATIS WAS NAMED TO THE


FAME BY SENATOR WILLIAM J. LARKIN, JR..


23/46



EUGENE

G. SMITHBronx born Eugene (Gene) G. Smith was sent to Vietnam in November 1968 as a member ofCharlie Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry whose mission was to find, fix, and destroy the enemythrough fire and maneuver; and to provide combat, combat support and combat service support incoordinated operations as an integral member of a combined arms team.

Gene graduated from Farmingdale College in 1967, worked briefly for Dorne & Margolin Aviationdesigning antennas for war-bound Bell Helicopters and shortly thereafter, in 1968, he was draftedand sent to Fort Jackson, South Carolina for basic training. Basic was followed by stints at FortPolk, Louisiana and Fort Benning, Georgia for advanced training. Gene left training with a rank ofcorporal E-4.

For his service, Eugene G. Smith was awarded 3 Purple Hearts, Combat Infantry Badge, VietnamService Medal, Vietnam Combat Medal, Air Medals and Bronze Star.

Gene completed service in 1969 as Staff Sergeant E-6 and went back to college. He received a degreefrom Stony Brook University and later started Genes Four Seasons Landscaping and Nursery Inc.in Yaphank, New York. He also began Riverview Marine Service in Catskill, New York.

Gene, a staunch advocate for veterans, now runs a not-for-profit organization to help veterans findhousing and to live independently. Gene and his wife, Pat, recently sold 100 acres of land in the core

Pine Barrens region of Long Island to New York State so that it could be forever preserved. Generous,thoughtful, and filled with compassion, Gene plans on using the proceeds to help veterans.

EUGENE G. SMITH WAS NAMED TO THE NEW


SENATOR KENNETH LA VALLE.


24/46



JOHN CZUHANICHJohn Czuhanich is a WWII veteran who has displayed incredible devotion to both his country andhis fellow service men and women.

John, a native of Endicott, New York, enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1943 and attended Marine

Corps Basic Training at Parris Island, SC. He went on to fight overseas as an infantryman in the

2nd Marine Division. After arriving, John was promoted to the rank of Corporal and participated

in the Battle of Saipan, for which he received the Purple Heart, and later the Battle of Tinian.

Following the war, John continued to demonstrate dedication to his fellow military men and womenwho had served during WWII. As one of the original organizers of the Marine Corps League (MCL) in

Broome County, John has been a motivating force behind recent efforts to honor deceased veterans

at their funerals in and around Broome County. Since its establishment, the Marine Corps League

has honored deceased veterans at nearly 3,000 of their funerals and sometimes perform as many

as five funerals in one day. John has been quoted as saying that the Broome County Marine Corps

League is second to none. As director of the Marine Corps League for the past six years, John

has worked tirelessly coordinating with funeral directors, contacting the MCL members, cleaning

and repairing rifles, and making sure that every veteran whose family requested their services

received honors at the grave site. When asked why he and the MCL honor veterans as honor

guards at their funerals, John responded, They deserve it.

JOHN CZUHANICH WAS NAMED TO THE


FAME BY SENATOR THOMAS LIBOUS.


25/46



HAROLD G. CRONINJustice Harold Harry G. Cronin is a World War II and Korean War Veteran who continues to serve ournation as a member of the Gerald B. H. Solomon Saratoga National Veterans Ceremony Honor Guard.

Harry Cronin enlisted in the U.S. Navy in September 1943, one week after his seventeenth birthday. InJune 1944, he was assigned to the newly commissioned USS LCI(L) Class Landing Craft (large), whichparticipated in the Asiatic-Pacific theater campaign. Harry served aboard for nearly three years asRM 2/C Radioman 2nd Class Petty Officer and was awarded the Asian-Pacific Campaign Medal with 3bronze stars, Philippine Liberation Medal, Philippine Defense Medal, Philippine Independence Medaland Philippine Presidential Medal. Following the end of World War II, Harry was part of a team that

destroyed water mines in the Leyte Gulf. For his service in the Korean War, Harry was awarded theKorean Conflict Medal and United Nations Medal.

Prior to enlisting in the Navy, Harry was an Air Raid Warden for the City of Albany in 1942 and 1943.

Returning home after Korea, Harry managed 110 A&P stores for two years and then opened tworestaurants. Harry also was employed by the State of New York for 32 years as a law examiner.

In 1976, Harry was elected Town Justice in the Town of Lake Luzerne. In 1985, he was selected Magistrateof the Year by the New York State Magistrates Association. Harry also served the town of Lake Luzerneas Deputy Supervisor.

Harry has long been active in veterans affairs and served as Deputy of the New York State AmericanLegion Legislative Committee. For the past 13 years, he has been a member of the Saratoga NationalCemetery Honor Guard, ensuring that every veteran interred at the cemetery receives a proper militaryburial service.

HAROLD G. CRONIN WAS NAMED TO THE


FAME BY SENATOR ELIZABETH O C. LITTLE.


26/46



RICHARD EVERSRichard Dick Evers was a member of the United States Marine Corp serving during World War II.Mr. Evers joined the Charles Wagner American Legion Post 421 in 1948, and remained an activemember and officer until his death. Serving as Americanism Chairman for the American Legion Post,he was responsible for the Memorial Day Parade, the Veterans Day Services, and the placing of Flagson Broadway on the 4th of July. If any program had a patriotic flavor Mr. Evers was involved.

Throughout his career, Mr. Evers received many awards and recognition from National, State, County,and Local organizations, as well as the American Legion Posts highest award, the Gold Card Life

Membership. When speaking of Mr. Evers, all who knew him would agree that the one title that bestdescribed him was Mr. Hicksville.

As a longtime volunteer archivist at the librarys Richard E. Evers Local History Room, Mr. Eversorganized the annual Hicksville Library Memorial Month display, a grand tribute to local war heroesin the library lobby. In addition, a street in Hicksville was named after him. A true community man,Mr. Evers was also a member of the Joseph Barry Knights of Columbus and the Catholic War VeteransPost 1946.

Along with his wife, Anne, Mr. Evers combined his talents of research and writing to produce severalbooks and articles. He was a teacher for 28 years and hundreds of students learned their history fromhim. He was a historian and took great pride in lecturing about Hicksville and Long Island.

When Mr. Evers passed away, the Hicksville community lost a very fine member and friend. Living along and rewarding life, Mr. Evers had a profound effect on all those he met.

RICHARD EVERS WAS NAMED TO THE NEW


SENATOR CARL MARCELLINO.


27/46



JOHN S. DAVANZOOn June 8, 1944, during the invasion of Normandy, the U.S.S. Glennon, a Gleaves-class destroyer,struck a mine off Normandy and was eventually sunk by shore batteries. Among the survivors wasJohn S. Davanzo.

John returned to his hometown of Mineola after his service in World War II. Those who came toknow him over the years marvel at his involvement in his community and the care and compassionhe shows for others.

Living each day as though it is a gift, Johns love of life and his kind and generous spirit hashad a profound impact on numerous organizations and fellow citizens over the years. John hasdedicated his time to numerous organizations such as the Mineola Volunteer Fire Department,Knights of Columbus, Kiwanis and Rotary among others, as well as to the veterans organizationsin his hometown - the Veterans of Foreign Wars Private Adolph Block Post #1305 and the AmericanLegion Mineola Memorial Post #349. John has even found time to volunteer at St. Francis Hospitaland at Mineola Village Hall.

In his professional life, John served in government as the Deputy Mayor of Mineola as well as Townof North Hempstead Councilman and also Town of North Hempstead Clerk.

John answered the call when his country needed him the most, serving in the United States Navy.

He never takes a moment for granted. For John, each day is an opportunity to help someone andhis community.

JOHN S. DAVANZO WAS NAMED TO THE NEW


SENATOR JACK M. MARTINS.


28/46



FIRST LIEUTENANT

MARGARET GILLAfter growing up in North Tonawanda and earning a nursing degree in Buffalo, Margaret Gillenlisted in the US Army in May 1941. In the immediate aftermath of the Allied invasion on D-Day,Margaret and her fellow nurses established a field hospital in Normandy for General PattonsThird Army and operated there for several months. On Christmas morning, the hospital was

moved to Bastogne where it was under constant enemy fire. The camp had only three walls andno roof, but continued to treat wounded soldiers in the cold and in the snow. Margaret later wasassigned to the 60th Division and treated victims of the infamous Dachau concentration campupon its liberation.

Margaret saw two additional actions before she was sent to Panama to work in a field hospital.

Promoted to First Lieutenant, she was awarded the Bronze Star for her heroic work in Bastogneand five battle stars for being part of the storming of Normandy and the liberation of Dachau.After the war, Margaret continued to work as a nurse for several decades in Long Island whereshe raised a family.

Margaret Gill was the first woman in New York State to be awarded the Bronze Star Medal for

bravery under enemy fire, and she is honored on the Women In Military Service For AmericaMemorial in Washington, DC. Margaret died in 1978.

FIRST LIEUTENANT MARGARET GILLWAS NAMED TO THE NEW YORK STATE


GEORGE D. MAZIARZ.


29/46



LT. COL

CLARENCE DARTOrganization: Squadron F 318th Army Air Force Base UnitAs a member of the famed World War II Tuskegee Airmen, Clarence Dart not only fought valiantly for hiscountry oversees, he fought racism at home. Named after their training site in Alabama, the TuskegeeAirmen were the first African Americans to fly as fighter-pilots in the United States military. As Dartrecalls, Someone in the War Department believed that the cranial capacity of blacks wouldnt let themfly. We proved them wrong! Indeed, they did: the Tuskegee Airmen did not lose a single escortedbomber to the Germans. Their heroism during World War II was a key reason why President Trumandesegregated the armed forces soon after the end of the war.

Darts early missions were in support of General Mark W. Clarks 5th Army as they drove to Rome. Dartwas constantly flying dive bombing and strafing missions and was shot down twice. After Gen. Clarkliberated Rome, the Tuskegee Airmen switched roles and became bomber escorts. In all, Dart flew 95missions: 45 missions for the 12th Air Force in P-40s, and 50 for the 15th Air Force in P-51s. For hisbravery, Dart was awarded five Distinguished Flying Crosses, an Air Medal, a Victory Medal, and theWWII Victory Medal.

After the war, Dart ended up back in Tuskegee, AL, training pilots, and then went to school in Oakland,CA, to study aeronautics. A native of Elmira, Dart settled in Saratoga Springs and worked for GeneralElectric Company until his retirement. Married for 61 years to Mildred Dart, he is the father of sevendaughters and two sons.

As a Tuskegee Airmen, Dart ascended to the rank of Captain. When he returned to New York after thewar, Dart continued his service as a reservist with the New York Air National Guard and retired as aLieutenant Colonel.

LT. COL CLARENCE DART WAS NAMED TO


FAME BY SENATOR ROY J. MC DONALD.


30/46



JOHN BARWINCZOKJohn Barwinczoks distinguished five year Navy career included being a member of the UnderWater Demolition Team 2, the precursor to the Navy Seals. John also served as Post Master forthe 6th Fleet in Europe as well as serving a year on a destroyer. Just prior to his discharge, heand his fellow servicemen received greetings from President Truman, cancelling all dischargesbecause of the Korean War and thus extending Johns service for another year.

Upon his discharge, John worked at General Electric as a test technician. After a short time heleft GE to work for the Department of Defense, to complete his high school education and enroll

in college. During his 35 year career with the Federal Government, he served in many capacitiesfrom inspector to Quality Manager for the Syracuse and New York areas. John retired in 1987 buthis hard work ethic led to the formation of his own company, JB Quality Consulting, which he ranfor nearly 15 years.

Always trying to help veterans in his community, John is the founder of the Korean War VeteransAssociation chapter in Cayuga County where membership has grown from 12 to 82 people in onlytwo and a half years. The chapter raised more than $43,000 for a Korean War monument to honorCayuga County veterans of the Korean War. The monument was dedicated on July 30, 2006, and isa part of the Veterans Memorial Park in downtown Auburn, New York.

John and his wife Ginny reside in Auburn, New York, where they have been lifelong residents and

active members of the community.

JOHN BARWINCZOK WAS NAMED TO THE


FAME BY SENATOR MICHAEL F. NOZZOLIO.


31/46



PHILIP C. SMITHPhilip C. Smith was drafted into service in the United States Army 1951, attending leadershipschool at Fort Dix, and OCS and jump training at Fort Benning, returning to Fort Dix with his newbride upon completion. He was then off to Korea as 2nd Lt. with Company G 15th regiment in the3rd infantry from January to July of 1953.

Phil was a diligent and courageous soldier and proved that in battle. He participated in the week-long battle for Outpost Harry and was awarded the Combat Infantry Badge and the Silver Star forValor in the successful defense of the Outpost.

Upon his return from Korea, he served in the Army Reserves for several years, reaching the rankof Captain. He probably would have made the Army his career but duty of another kind called himhome to serve with his father in the family business, Smiths IGA. For 38 years Phil and his wifeJudy successfully ran the business until it was destroyed by fire in 1991.

In addition to running the family business, Phil served on the Odessa-Montour School Board,was elected to the Schuyler County Legislature, serving 23 years with seven as chairman. Hehas remained active in the VFW, American Legion and AM Vets. In 1995, Governor George Patakiawarded Phil the NYS Conspicuous Service Award.

Since 1997, Phil has served as director of Veteran Services in Schuyler County, connecting veterans

with the services available to them. He volunteers his time to drive vets to appointments andwillingly shares his wisdom and compassion to help those who served their country.

Philip C. Smith proudly dedicated his life to family, community and country. This is clearly evidencedin all that he has done and for these reasons he is recognized and worthy of the NYS Veterans Hallof Fame.

PHILIP C. SMITH WAS NAMED TO THE NEW


SENATOR THOMAS F. OMARA.


32/46



SERGEANT

WILLIAM CAPODANNOSergeant William Bill Capodanno is a World War II, U.S. Army combat veteran who served in thePacific Theater from January 1941 to January 1946. He is the recipient of the American Defense

Service Medal, the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal and the World War II Victory Medal.

Bill has been an active member of the VFW for 65 years, and a resident of Larchmont since 1952.

He owned and operated a local roofing business, Village Roofing, in the community for many years.

Bill served as the commander of VFW Post 1156 for 15 out of the more than 50 years that he has

been a member of that post, and has held various other offices in VFW Post 1156 for many years.

He also held numerous VFW County and NYS positions over the last 65 years.

Bill is a beloved figure in the Village of Larchmont and throughout Westchester, who has

distinguished himself in service to both veterans and his community. He has participated in

countless Veterans Day and Memorial Day ceremonies, and conducted innumerable Memorial

Day cemetery visitations. He has also reached beyond the Sound Shore community. Under Bills

leadership, VFW Post 1156 has hosted both a holiday party in December and a picnic in August for

veterans from the Montrose VA Hospital for 58 consecutive years. Bill was also an active member

of the Town of Mamaroneck Fire Department for over 40 years.

SERGEANT BILL CAPODANNO WAS NAMED


OF FAME BY SENATOR SUZI OPPENHEIMER.


33/46



GLYGER G. BEACHGlyger G. Beach is a man of many achievements both in his military service and in his community who believes in not only serving ones country, but God and family.

Upon completion of training courses, Mr. Beach was deployed to Iraq where he was assigned as

Chaplain of the 301st Area Support Group. He had a total of sixty-five personnel working with him

to provide area religious support to an entire population of 40,000.

For his military service, Mr. Beach received numerous awards including: the Bronze Star Medal,

Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Superior Unit Award, Global Waron Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, and many others.

Now listed as one of many soldiers wounded in action, Mr. Beach dedicates his time to helping his

community and not only loving his friends and family, but using his vast experience to teach them

to follow a holistic and spiritual path in life. When his children were concerned he could be killed

in Iraq, he responded by proudly saying, When I go and if I die, tell anyone and everyone that I

willingly gave my life in service to God and the USA. Mr. Beach is truly a person who loves his

family and nation. His pride and faith is deserving of this recognition.

GLYGER G. BEACH WAS NAMED TO THE NEW


SENATOR KEVIN S. PARKER.


34/46



ANTHONY CAMINITIIn 1942, Anthony Caminiti was drafted into the Army at the age of 30. He served three years as aTechnical Sergeant in Europe within the 42nd Infantry Rainbow Division. His division liberated the

Dachau Concentration Camp in Germany and freed 32,000 starving prisoners. He was awarded the

Combat Infantry Badge, the Bronze Star and the conspicuous Service Cross.

Upon his arrival from the war, Anthony Caminiti continued in the business sector as a partner in two

thriving businesses. One, a moving business that he operated along the east coast. The second, as

president and partner of Central Queens Furniture, the largest store of its kind in the borough.

In 1970, Anthony Caminitis community involvement led to his appointment as Chair of the Corona Task

Force. In that capacity, he served well by incorporating new ideas and providing numerous presentations

to the local community board. This work led to a permanent appointment at Community Board 4, where

through much effort and dedication he eventually worked his way up as chair of the prestigious Parks

and Recreation Committee. In addition, Mr. Caminiti is the past president of the Northside Democratic

Association; Director of the Joseph Lisa Hall; and continues to be an active member in the Order of the Sons

of Italy, the Corona Lions Club, St. Leos Holy Name Society, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars at Flanders

Field Post 150 in Corona.

Anthony Caminiti has been a life-long resident of Corona, Queens, for all of his 99 years of life. His wife

passed away a few years ago and he has three daughters. He has dedicated his life to his family and his

community. He often jokes, I dont have much time for hobbies, Im involved in a lot already. I beganworking from an early age and Ive been comfortable living this way.

ANTHONY CAMINITI WAS NAMED TO THE


FAME BY SENATOR JOSE PERALTA.


35/46



RONALD J. PILOZZIRonald J. Pilozzi served as a Commissioned Second Lieutenant in the United States Army from1970 to 1972. During that time, Ron served as an Artillery Officer with the 101st Airborne Division

in Vietnam and then as an Executive Officer of the 81st Artillery in West Germany. For his service

and dedication to his country, Ron received the Purple Heart, Bronze Star with V Device, Vietnam

Campaign Metal with V Device, Air Metal, National Defense Service Metal and Vietnam Service

Metal awards.

Rons gallantry in the U.S. Armed Forces is complemented by his service to his community. As

the President of the Town of Tonawanda Development Corporation, Ron helped to establish aChildcare Consortium and worked with the State Department of Environmental Conservation and

City of Tonawanda to demolish and remediate the Spaulding Fibre site. Additionally, Ron was

elected to four consecutive terms as 3rd Ward Councilmember for the City of Tonawanda and

currently serves as the Mayor for the city, a post he has held since 2006.

Ron retired as a member of management at the Tonawanda General Motors Engine Plant, holding

positions in Quality Control, Industrial Engineering and Personnel Departments for over 30 years.

He and his wife, Christine, live in the city of Tonawanda.

RONALD J. PILOZZI WAS NAMED TO THE

NEW YORK STATE VETERANS HALL

OF FAME BY SENATOR MICHAEL H.

RAZENHOFER.


36/46



BATTLE OF THE BULGE

VETERANSOswego County Battle of the Bulge VeteransThe Oswego County Battle of the Bulge Veterans helped beat back Hitlers Ardennes Offensive during the winter of1944-45. By all accounts, the war in Western Europe was winding down when the Nazis mounted a surprise gambitalong the Belgian frontier that Winston Churchill called, undoubtedly the greatest American battle of the war andits bloodiest, with 89,500 casualties.

Brothers in combat, the Oswego County Battle of the Bulge Veterans have remained a force over decades of serviceto their communities. Members continue to meet regularly and, in addition to their individual success in business,industry, education, government and professional baseball, band together to perform educational services for theirneighbors and friends, sharing their stories and military traditions with new generations.

The Oswego County Battle of the Bulge Veterans is among the largest gathering of soldiers from a single engagementin the nation. Members include:

Oswego County Battle of the Bulge Veterans

Their sacrifice, patriotism, service and dedication to community and country have earned them a place in the New YorkState Senate Veterans Hall of Fame.

BATTLE OF THE BULGE VETERANS

WERE NAMED TO THE NEW YORK STATE


PATTY RITCHIE.

SSgt. John M. Canale, ChairmanPvt. Harold BlakeSSgt. Matt Bush*

Don BuskePO2 Fred Crisafulli

Don Cronan*Carl Dickinson*Cpl. Bill Hogan

Don Kitts*

W.O.J.G Len LambertPfc. Bill Leighton

Sgt. Fred LockwoodPfc. Len Maniccia

Tec5 Alfred MyhillPfc. Bob Ochsenbern

SSgt. Phil PecoraSfc. Charles Phallen

Carmen Santore*Charles Scaglione*

Justin Baum (Afghanistan)QM2 Alex Beattle (Korea)

Sgt. Myles Becky (Vietnam)

Tom Halpin (Korea)

* deceased


37/46



SERGEANT

KEN MOOREKen Moore has spent his life dedicated to protecting and honoring our military personnel.Ken was born and raised in Rochester, NY. After graduating from high school, he worked forthe City of Rochester and the Eastman Kodak Company before being drafted for duty in the USArmy in November of 1965. After basic training at Fort Dix and Fort Benning, he was deployedto the Republic of South Vietnam with D Troop 17th Cavalry. He returned to the United States inNovember of 1967.

In the mid 1970s, he became involved with the local families of the POW/MIAs from the VietnamWar and spent some 10 years working to create awareness on the issue. In 1985, he became amember of Vietnam Veterans of America (Chapter 20) and has served proudly ever since. Duringhis tenure with the VVA, he served as Board Member, Vice President, Secretary and President (anoffice he has held for the past 12 years). He also served in the Army reserves form from 1980 to1985, retiring with the rank of Sergeant First Class.

In 1999, he was National Vice President of Veterans Aimed Toward Awareness. In this position,he toured the country giving lectures on veterans health and benefits. In that time, he teamed upwith Heather French, Miss America 2000, whose platform was veterans health. Over the past 11years, they have worked together on an awareness campaign focusing on veterans issues. Today,he serves on the Monroe County Veterans Advisory Committee, 26th Congressional Advisory

Committee, Greater Rochester Vietnam Veterans Memorial Committee, and lead mentor of the7th Judicial District Veterans Court.

Ken is married to Sandra Dee, and they have two adult boys, Todd and Mark.

KEN MOORE WAS NAMED TO THE NEW


SENATOR JOSEPH E. ROBACH.


38/46



Michael Burke was born on September 4, 1949. After graduating from Wyandanch Memorial HighSchool in 1968, he worked for Chase Manhattan Bank in New York City, until he was drafted intothe United States Army in April 1969.

During his time with the Army, Michael was sent to Vietnam in October of 1969. While on tour,he was wounded twice. His first injury occurred in Vietnam and he returned to duty being injuredagain in Cambodia on May 8, 1970 which ended his tour. After sustaining significant injuries inCambodia, Michael spent one week in a hospital in Vietnam and was transferred to a hospital in

Japan for a month. His final recuperative stay was a six month period at the Walter Reed MedicalCenter in Washington, DC. He received two Purple Hearts, a Bronze Star with v device, an ArmyCommendation Medal with v device for heroism, a Vietnamese Service Medal, Republic of VietnamCampaign Medal, Conspicuous Service Star, Combat Infantry Badge and the National DefenseService Medal.

Upon his retirement from the Army, Michael returned to Wyandanch and married his wife, Juana,on October 13, 1973. While attending Marist College, he and his wife raised their five children,Jayne, Michelle, Melissa, Michael Jr., and Marland Burke. Michael went on to have a successfulcareer at IBM, and retired after 24 years.

Michael Burke has held numerous prestigious positions for the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

He currently serves as Post Commander for the VFW Valil Wolff/McKenna Frye Post 170 inPoughkeepsie, NY and District Commander for District 2.

Michael and his wife reside in Poughkeepsie, New York.

MICHAEL BURKE

MICHAEL BURKE WAS NAMED TO THE NEW


SENATOR STEPHEN M. SALAND.


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DEPUTY INSPECTOR

COREY PEGUESDeputy Inspector Corey Pegues was born and raised in Queens, New York. He attended and graduated from AndrewJackson High School in 1968. Immediately after High School graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army.

While in the military he was assigned as a Medical Specialist where he attended training at Ft. Sam Huston, which islocated in Houston, TX. Upon completion of his medical training he was assigned to a Calvary Unit in Ft. Drum, NewYork, until the end of his enlistment in March 2001. After his honorable discharge from the Army, he enlisted in the NewYork State National Guard where he spent the next 14 years of his military career.

Subsequent to his discharge from the Army, D.I. Pegues entered the New York City Police Academy on January 13, 1992.Upon graduation from the academy, he was assigned to the 114th Precint which is located in Astoria, Queens where hewas assigned as a Patrol Office and as a member of the Street Narcotics Enforcement Unit. In 1998, Captain Pegues was

promoted to the rank of Sergeant and was assigned to the 81st Precinct which is located in Brooklyn, NY. While at the81st Precinct he was assigned as a Patrol Supervisor and as the Precinct Training Sergeant. He was then promoted to therank of Lieutenant in 2002, and assigned to Transit District # 30 which is located at Hoyt & Schemerhorn station. Whilethere he was assigned as a Platoon Commander. Six months later, he was transferred to the 28th Precinct located inHarlem. D.I. Pegues held various positions while assigned at the 28th Precinct such as Lieutenant Platoon Commander,Special Operations Lieutenant and Administrative Lieutenant. On December 23, 2006, Captain Pegues was promotedto the rank of Captain and was assigned to the 75th Precinct in Brooklyn, as an Executive Officer. After only 11 monthshe was transferred to P.S.A. #2 where he was assigned as the Commanding Officer. In May 2008, he was promotedto his current rank of Deputy Inspector and on June 30th of that year, he was assigned to his current position as theCommanding Officer of the 067th Precinct.

D.I. Pegues has a Bachelor of Science from Saint Josephs College in Organizational Management and a Master ofProfessional Studies from Saint Johns University in Criminal Justice Leadership. He also just completed a one yearExecutive Leadership Development Program at Columbia University Business School. In addition, for the past 5 years,

he has been an adjunct professor at Monroe Community College, where he teaches in the Criminal Justice Department.

D.I. Pegues is a member of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (N.O.B.L.E.) where he iscurrently the president and a founding member of the Long Island chapter. He is also on the board of directors forCriminal Justice Outreach Tours as well as the Pleasant Avenue Daycare Center.

D.I. Pegues is married to Brendale Pegues.

DEPUTY INSPECTOR COREY PEGUES



JOHN L. SAMPSON.


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JOHN P. NOWHITNEYJohn P. Nowhitney, Oneonta, served in the United States Navy during World War II. Nowhitney sawservice with the famed Task Force 58, and spent a great deal of his service time on board the aircraftcarrier U.S.S Bealleau Wood in the Pacific Theater of Operations.

Nowhitneys acts of heroism and bravery were many and he was duly recognized and decorated forsuch deeds.

Among the honors bestowed on Nowhitney, a presidential citation which reads in part:

For extraordinary heroism in action against Japanese forces in the air, ashore and afloat, spearheadingthe concentrated carrier-warfare in forward areas, the Belleau Wood struck crushing blows towardannihilating Japanese fighting power; provided air cover for amphibious forces and inflicted terrificlosses on the Japanese fleet and merchant units.

Nowhitney also recalls one particularly harrowing incident aboard the Belleau Wood:

October 1944- we were in a battle with the Japanese fleet. Our strike force was returning. Resultswere good. One of our TBFs landed and taxied to the starboard side in front of the bridge. The pilotwas given the signal to cut his engine and open his bomb bay. When he did out dropped a 500 poundbomb. I was the first to reach the bomb. With my bare hands, I unscrewed the detonator and heardCaptain Prides order, Throw it over the side. I did. If it had gone off, I would probably not be here and

possibly the bridge and others would have been wiped out.

It is heroic events like this that resulted in Nowhitney being awarded honors including World War IIVictory Medal, Navy Good Conduct Medal, American Campaign Medal, Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medalwith one silver star and four bronze stars, Presidential Unit Citation Ribbon, Combat Action Ribbon,and Philippine Liberation Medal with two stars.

JOHN P. NOWHITNEY WAS NAMED TO THE


FAME BY SENATOR JAMES L. SEWARD.


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COLONEL

JOHN F. BARRYColonel Barry of Rockville Centre has an exemplary military record and has demonstrated a true andunwavering commitment to his country.

Commissioned through the Reserve Training Corps at St. Bonaventure University in 1968, ColonelBarry is a graduate of the Field Artillery Officer Basic Course, the Field Artillery and TransportationOfficer Advanced Course and the United States Naval Transportation Management School as well asthe Command and General Staff College.

Colonel Barry proudly served his country in the First Cavalry Division in Vietnam where he served as

Forward Observer, Executive Officer and Battery Commander of A Battery, 1st Battalion, 21st Artillery.As a member of the New York Army National Guard he served as Battery Commander; Commander,B Battery, 2nd Battalion, 104th Field Artillery. As an Army Reservist his duties included AssistantInspector General, Headquarters, 77th United States Army Command; Chief, Internal Review, 77thUnited States Army Command; Battalion Commander, 354th Transportation Battalion and the ArmyEmergency Preparedness Liaison Officer for the State of Rhode Island.

Colonel Barry has been awarded numerous commendations and is the proud recipient of the Legionof Merit, Combat Infantry Range, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal with two Oak LeafClusters, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal withtwo Oak Leaf Clusters, National Defense Service Medal with Service Star Vietnam Service Medal, withtwo Service Stars. Additionally, he received an Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Army Service Ribbon,

Republic of Vietnam Campaign medal, Valorous Unit Citation, Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm andVietnam Civil Action Medal.

Colonel Barry retired from active service in 2000 and remains an active member of the AmericanLegion, Association of the United States Army and Reserve Officers Association.

COLONEL JOHN F. BARRY WAS NAMED TO


FAME BY SENATOR DEAN G. SKELOS.


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MAJOR SHARON

SWEETING-LINDSEYMajor Sharon Sweeting-Lindsey retired from the United States Army Reserve, after having served 26 years.During her tenure in the military, she was stationed at Fort Totten and Fort Hamilton, where her militaryoccupation skill was that of a Food Service Specialist and Food Service Officer.

Major Sweeting-Lindsey is a Magnum Cum Laude graduate from Brooklyn College, where she obtained aBachelors of Arts Degree, a Masters of Education Degree and an Advance Certificate Degree in Supervisionand Administration. She also possesses numerous licensures as a NYC Certified Food Service instructor,Principal and School District Administrator.

In her civilian professional life, Major Sweeting-Lindsey taught at the New York City Board of Education,administered a state-wide food and nutrition program for the State Education Department and was theDeputy Executive Director of Operations for the Nutritional Services Division of the New York City Departmentof Correction. She is an adjunct professor at LaGuardia Community College where she has taught for thelast 29 years.

In addition to her educational career, Major Sweeting-Lindsey is a registered, certified and licensed dietitianin New York and Texas. Because of her love of health and nutrition, she founded Taurus Associates Inc.,a nutritional food service provider and consultant agency. After her civilian retirement, Major Sweeting-Lindsey became

2011 veterans' hall of fame award recipients

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