Honor a Veteran from Senator Tom Libous

Flags to Fly at Half-Staff for Ft. Drum Soldier

2011-11-15T09:53:00.000-05:00

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has directed that flags on state government buildings be flown at half-staff on Wednesday, November 16 in honor of a Fort Drum soldier who died in Afghanistan on November 11, Veterans Day.

Private First Class Theodore B. Rushing died in Kandahar province of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 3^rd Squadron of the 71^st Cavalry Regiment of the 10^th Mountain Division's 3^rd Brigade Combat Team, based at Fort Drum. Private First Class Rushing was from Longwood, Florida.

"On behalf of all New Yorkers, I send my deepest condolences to the family, friends, and fellow soldiers of Private First Class Rushing," Governor Cuomo said. "This Fort Drum soldier, who lost his life on Veterans Day, made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. We will honor his service and his dedication to our nation."

Governor Cuomo has directed that the flags on all state buildings be lowered to half-staff in honor of and in tribute to our state's service members and those stationed in New York who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Thank you to all of our Veterans

2011-11-11T18:28:00.000-05:00

Thank you for serving our country and our community. We wouldn't be what we are today without the service of the men and women of our Armed Forces.

Flags to be Flown at Half-Mast for Fort Drum Soldier

2011-11-04T15:38:00.000-04:00

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has directed that flags on state government buildings be flown at half-staff on Tuesday, November 8 in honor of a Fort Drum soldier who died in Afghanistan on October 30.

Staff Sergeant Ari R. Cullers died in Kandahar province of injuries suffered when an insurgent rocket-propelled grenade exploded near him. He was assigned to the 3rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion of the 10th Mountain Division's 3rd Brigade Combat Team, based at Fort Drum. Staff Sergeant Cullers was from New London, Connecticut.

"I join with all New Yorkers in extending our deepest sympathies to the family, friends, and fellow soldiers of Staff Sergeant Cullers," Governor Cuomo said. "We will mourn the loss of this Fort Drum soldier and we will honor his service to our country."

Governor Cuomo has directed that the flags on all state buildings be lowered to half-staff in honor of and in tribute to our state's service members and those stationed in New York who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for Ft. Drum Soldier

2011-10-17T19:12:00.001-04:00

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has directed that flags on state government buildings be flown at half-staff on Wednesday, October 19 in honor of a Fort Drum soldier who died in Afghanistan on October 13.

Specialist Jeremiah T. Sancho died in Kandahar province of injuries suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 3^rd Squadron, 71^st Cavalry Regiment of the 10^th Mountain Division's 3^rd Brigade Combat Team based at Fort Drum. Specialist Sancho was from Palm Bay, Florida.

"On behalf of all New Yorkers, I extend my deepest condolences to the family, friends, and fellow soldiers of Specialist Sancho," Governor Cuomo said. "This soldier made the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of our county. We will be forever grateful for his service."

Governor Cuomo has directed that the flags on all state buildings be lowered to half-staff in honor of and in tribute to our state's service members and those stationed in New York who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for Ft. Drum Soldier

2011-10-13T20:50:00.000-04:00

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has directed that flags on state government buildings be flown at half-staff on Monday, October 17 in honor of a Fort Drum soldier who died in Afghanistan on October 10.

Sergeant Nathan L. Wyrick died in Kandahar province while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 32^nd Infantry Regiment of the 10^th Mountain Division's 3^rd Brigade Combat Team stationed at Fort Drum. Sergeant Wyrick was from Enumclaw, Washington.

"I join with all New Yorkers in mourning the loss of Sergeant Wyrick and I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and fellow soldiers," Governor Cuomo said. "We will honor his service and his dedication to our country."

Governor Cuomo has directed that the flags on all state buildings be lowered to half-staff in honor of and in tribute to our state's service members and those stationed in New York who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for New York Soldier

2011-10-06T14:02:00.000-04:00

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has directed that flags on state government buildings be flown at half-staff on Friday, October 7 in honor of a soldier from New York City who died in Afghanistan on October 3.

Army Private Danny Chen died in Kandahar province while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. He was assigned to the 3^rd Battalion, 21^st Infantry Regiment of the 1^st Stryker Brigade Combat Team of the 25^th Infantry Division, stationed at Fort Wainwright, Alaska.

"On behalf of all New Yorkers, I send my profound sympathies to the family, friends, and fellow soldiers of Private Chen," Governor Cuomo said. "We will remember the service and mourn the loss of this New York soldier."

Governor Cuomo has directed that the flags on all state buildings be lowered to half-staff in honor of and in tribute to our state's service members and those stationed in New York who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

First burial held at Sampson veterans cemetery

2011-09-28T16:05:00.000-04:00

Evan VanGelder became the first veteran to be buried at the new Sampson Veteran Cemetery in Romolus. Read the complete story here.

Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for Two Ft. Drum Soldiers

2011-09-16T19:49:00.001-04:00

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has directed that flags on state government buildings be flown at half-staff on Tuesday, September 20 in honor of two Fort Drum soldiers who died on September 8.

Army Specialist Koran P. Contreras and Private 1^st Class Douglas J. Jeffries, Jr. died of wounds suffered when their unit was attacked with an improvised explosive device in Kandahar province, Afghanistan. They were assigned to the 2^nd Battalion, 87^th Infantry Regiment of the 10^th Mountain Division's 3^rd Brigade Combat Team, stationed at Fort Drum. Specialist Contreras was from Lawndale, California, and Private 1^st Class Jeffries, Jr. was from Springville, California.

"On behalf of all New Yorkers, I extend my deepest sympathies to the family, friends, and fellow soldiers of Specialist Contreras and Private First Class Jeffries," Governor Cuomo said. "We will mourn these Fort Drum soldiers and we will honor their sacrifice."

Governor Cuomo has directed that the flags on all state buildings be lowered to half-staff in honor of and in tribute to our state's service members and those stationed in New York who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for New York Sailor

2011-09-14T21:30:00.000-04:00

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has directed that flags on state government buildings be flown at half-staff on Friday, September 16 in honor of an East Concord sailor who died in Bahrain on September 7.

Commander James K. Crawford died in a non-combat related incident in Manama, Bahrain. He was assigned to U.S. Naval Forces Central Command at the Combined Maritime Forces Coalition Coordination Center at Naval Support Activity, Bahrain.

"I wish to extend the condolences of all New Yorkers to the family, friends, and fellow sailors of Commander James Crawford," Governor Cuomo said. "We will honor and remember the service and sacrifice of this New York sailor."

Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for Fort Drum Soldier

2011-09-13T09:06:00.001-04:00

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has directed that flags on state government buildings be flown at half-staff on Wednesday, September 14 in honor of a Fort Drum soldier who died on August 31.

Army Specialist Kevin R. Shumaker died in a stateside hospital of a non-combat related illness while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. He was assigned to the Brigade Special Troops Battalion of the 10^th Mountain Division's 2^nd Brigade Combat Team stationed at Fort Drum. He was from Livermore, California.

"On behalf of all New Yorkers, I offer our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and fellow soldiers of Specialist Shumaker," Governor Cuomo said. "We mourn the passing of this young soldier and will remember his service."

Governor Cuomo has directed that the flags on all state buildings be lowered to half-staff in honor of and in tribute to our state's service members and those stationed in New York who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for Ft. Drum Soldier

2011-09-01T14:00:00.000-04:00

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has directed that flags on state government buildings be flown at half-staff on Friday, September 2 in honor of a Fort Drum soldier who died in Kandahar province, Afghanistan on August 25.

Army Private First Class Jesse W. Dietrich died of injuries sustained when insurgents attacked his unit using small arms fire. He was assigned to the 2^nd Battalion, 87^th Infantry Regiment of the 10^th Mountain Division's 3^rd Brigade Combat Team stationed at Fort Drum. Private First Class Dietrich was from Venus, Texas.

"On behalf of all New Yorkers, I mourn the loss of Private First Class Dietrich," Governor Cuomo said. "New York will remember the service of this Fort Drum soldier and we will honor his commitment to our nation. I send my sympathies to his family, friends, and fellow soldiers."

Governor Cuomo has directed that the flags on all state buildings be lowered to half-staff in honor of and in tribute to our state's service members and those stationed in New York who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for NY Soldier

2011-08-22T14:28:00.000-04:00

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has directed that flags on state government buildings be flown at half-staff on Wednesday, August 24 in honor of a soldier from Kingston who died in Zabul, Afghanistan on August 19.

Army Private 1^st Class Douglas L. Cordo died of injuries sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. He was a member of the 1^st Battalion, 24^th Infantry Regiment of the 1^st Brigade Combat Team of the 25^th Infantry Division based at Fort Wainwright, Alaska.

"On behalf of all New Yorkers, I extend my deepest sympathies to the friends, family, and fellow soldiers of Private First Class Cordo," Governor Cuomo said. "We will mourn the loss of this New York soldier and we will remember his dedication to our nation."

Governor Cuomo has directed that the flags on all state buildings be lowered to half-staff in honor of and in tribute to our state's service members and those stationed in New York who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

New York helps scammed soldiers

2011-08-22T11:04:00.000-04:00

Soldiers in New York will be repaid $3.5 million after being swindled by a private company near Fort Drum.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman reached a settlement with a company in Watertown that sold computers to soldiers for three and four times their actual worth, with finance charges topping 240 percent.

"Victimizing the people who defend America is beyond despicable," said Sen. Tom Libous. "I'm glad Attorney General Schneiderman was able to help recoup some of the money swindled from soldiers."

Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for New York Soldier

2011-07-21T08:55:00.000-04:00

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has directed that flags on state government buildings be flown at half-staff on Friday, July 22 in honor of a New York City Marine who died on July 17.

Lance Corporal Jabari N. Thompson, from Brooklyn, died of wounds sustained July 13 while conducting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. He was assigned to the 3^rd Battalion, 2^nd Marine Regiment, 2^nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

"On behalf of all New Yorkers, we honor the service and dedication of Lance Corporal Thompson," Governor Cuomo said. "I send my deepest condolences to the family, friends, and fellow Marines of this New Yorker and join with them in mourning his loss."

Governor Cuomo has directed that the flags on all state buildings be lowered to half-staff in honor of and in tribute to our state's service members and those stationed in New York who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Welcome to the New York State American Legion

2011-07-13T17:22:00.000-04:00

American Legion members from across New York State are travelling to Binghamton for their annual convention. It will be held at the Broome County Memorial Arena.

At 11 AM on Friday, the Board of Directors of the Arena will host a dedication ceremony for the new location of the flag display and the Veterans Tribute Showcase at the Arena.

Please welcome these folks who served our nation to our community.

Senate passes bill to distance protests at military funerals

2011-07-13T12:05:00.002-04:00

The state Senate has passed a bill to force protesters at funerals of military personnel to stay 300 feet away – and get a permit to protest.
The bill was inspired by the actions of members of Westboro Baptist Church, who picket soldiers’ funerals as a protest against homosexuality.

Lawmakers compromised on the 300-foot limit; a similar bill would have set a 1,000-foot limit.

“Soldiers’ families are grieving – as everyone should when a soldier dies for his country,” said Sen. Tom Libous. “We should support families at a funeral, not turn it into a political circus. I supported the 1,000-foot limit, but this is a compromise that still protects families.”

The bill, which the Assembly has already passed, triples the setback from 100 feet.

“I’m very glad this bill was passed,” said Bill Camay of Johnson City, a veteran and motorcyclist who leads bikers from the Patriot Guard Riders to military funerals to provide a buffer zone between mourners and protesters. “Is 300 feet enough? No. As Americans, they of course have the right to protest, but not at a time when the family is in mourning and in the process of burying their loved one.”

Legislators needed to craft a law that respects a person’s First Amendment rights to free speech and peaceable assembly. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled earlier this year that Westboro Baptist Church’s protests were protected speech, overturning a jury award to Albert Snyder, who sued the church for emotional distress following its protest during his son’s funeral.

“Protest anywhere else they would like – courthouse, town hall, etc., -- but not at a military funeral of someone that has served this country and in many cases died for this country,” said Camay, a military policeman from 1965 to 1968. He and the fellow Patriot Guard will continue to provide that buffer zone. “We will still protect and shield them from any protesters that come on the scene,” he said. “We, of course, do this in a non-violent manner.”

“Fallen soldiers can no longer protect the Constitution, or their families, so we need to do it for them,” Libous said. “This bill balances those rights and responsibilities.”

Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for NY Soldier

2011-07-12T19:15:00.000-04:00

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has directed that flags on state government buildings be flown at half-staff on Thursday, July 14 in honor of a soldier from Albany who was killed in action in Afghanistan on July 10.

Army Specialist Rafael A. Nieves, Jr. died of wounds suffered when small arms fire and a rocket propelled grenade struck his vehicle during a mounted patrol in Paktika province. He was assigned to the 1^st Battalion, 506^th Infantry Regiment of the 4^th Brigade Combat Team of the 101^st Airborne Division (Air Assault) stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.

"On behalf of all New Yorkers, I express my sympathies to the family, friends, and fellow soldiers of Specialist Rafael Nieves, Jr.," Governor Cuomo said. "We join them in mourning the death of this New York soldier and we will honor his service to our nation."

Governor Cuomo has directed that the flags on all state buildings be lowered to half-staff in honor of and in tribute to our state's service members and those stationed in New York who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for Ft. Drum Soldier

2011-07-05T15:49:00.000-04:00

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has directed that flags on state government buildings be flown at half-staff on Friday, July 8 in honor of a Fort Drum soldier who died in Afghanistan on July 1.

Private 1^st Class James A. Waters died of wounds sustained when his unit was attacked by an improvised explosive device in Kandahar province. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion of the 32^nd Infantry Regiment, 3^rd Brigade Combat Team of the 10^th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, New York. Private 1^st Class Waters was from Cloverdale, Indiana.

"I join with the family, friends, and fellow soldiers of Private 1^st Class Waters in mourning his passing," Governor Cuomo said. "Private 1^st Class Waters made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. We will honor his memory and continue to hold the brave men and women based at Fort Drum in the highest regard for their dedication to keeping America safe and protecting freedom around the world."

Governor Cuomo has directed that the flags on all state buildings be lowered to half-staff in honor of and in tribute to our state's service members and those stationed in New York who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Open Thread: Happy Fourth!

2011-07-04T12:59:00.000-04:00

Remember our veterans today by thanking them or sharing a personal story in the comment section below.

Happy Fourth of July!

Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for Ft. Drum Soldier

2011-06-21T11:27:00.000-04:00

GOVERNOR CUOMO DIRECTS FLAGS TO HALF-STAFF

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has directed that flags on state government buildings be flown at half-staff on Thursday, June 23 in honor of a Fort Drum soldier who died of wounds in Afghanistan on June 18.

Private 1^st Class Brian J. Backus died when insurgents attacked his unit with small arms fire in Kandahar province. He was assigned to the 2^nd Battalion, 87^th Infantry Regiment of the 10^th Mountain Division's 3^rd Brigade Combat Team. He was from Saginaw Township, Michigan.

"I join with all New Yorkers in extending our deepest sympathies and condolences to the family, friends, and fellow soldiers of Private 1^st Class Backus," Governor Cuomo said. "We embrace all of the soldiers stationed at Fort Drum as part of the New York family. We will mourn his passing and honor his contribution to our nation."

Governor Cuomo has directed that the flags on all state buildings be lowered to half-staff in honor of and in tribute to our state's service members and those stationed in New York who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Senate bill protects veterans memorials

2011-06-21T08:40:00.000-04:00

Veterans have earned their memorials. And those memorials deserve protection, said Sen. Tom Libous, announcing he was co-sponsoring a bill to give that protection to veterans memorials.

S.3639, sponsored by Sen. Suzi Oppenheimer of Port Chester, would make the memorials parklands, and require state Legislature approval before veterans memorials could be abandoned, re-developed, leased, sold or transferred.

“Memorials aren’t just a stone or a name on a park or building – they’re a promise to remember,” Libous said. “Veterans sacrifice time, safety, health and even their lives to protect us. The least we can do in return is protect their memorials.”

“They all mean something,” said Terry Bresina of Norwich, a Vietnam veteran and past commander of American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars posts in Chenango County, as well as a Purple Heart recipient. “It says people cared; that somewhere along the way, the trouble we went through was important to people.”

The bill would add a speed bump of sorts or plans to change or eliminate memorials, which Bresina said could have come in useful during a recent renovation to East Park in Norwich, which required moving a number of monuments.

“A lot of veterans were upset about that,” Bresina said, and would have appreciated greater input into the planning.

“Veterans memorials need to be protected,” Libous said. “This bill would give us a tool to make sure they are.”

Endicott man inducted into state Senate Veterans Hall of Fame

2011-06-15T13:10:00.001-04:00

John Czuhanich of Endicott has been named to the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame, nominated by Sen. Tom Libous.

“John is a patriot. He has spent his life either defending his country in World War II, or helping honor his fellow veterans when they come home,” Libous said. “He deserves as much honor as he bestows upon others.”

Czuhanich was one of 64 people inducted into the hall of fame, created to honor veterans from the Empire State who have distinguished themselves both in military and civilian life.

Czuhanich, a native of Endicott, enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1943 and attended Marine Corps Basic Training at Parris Island, S.C. He went on to fight overseas as an infantryman in the 2nd Marine Division. After arriving, John was promoted to corporal and participated in the Battle of Saipan, for which he received the Purple Heart, and later the Battle of Tinian.

Following the war, Czuhanich continued his tireless dedication once he returned home. As one of the original organizers of the Marine Corps League in Broome County, he has been a driving 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 funerals. They sometimes attend and perform ceremonial services at as many as five funerals a day.

The Broome County Marine Corps League “is second to none,” Czuhanich has said. As director of the Marine Corps League for the past six years, he has worked with funeral directors and Marine Corps League members, making sure that every veteran whose family requests their services receives graveside honors. The details go from scheduling, to training, to cleaning and repairing rifles.

It’s a lot of work, particularly for an 86-year-old Marine. So why does he do it? “They deserve it,” Czuhanich said.

And so does he.

Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for Ft. Drum Soldiers

2011-06-08T16:55:00.000-04:00

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has directed that flags on state government buildings be flown at half-staff on Friday, June 10 in honor of two Fort Drum soldiers who were killed in Afghanistan on June 5.

Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Bradley J. Gaudet and Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Kenneth R. White died when their OH-58 Kiowa helicopter crashed in Khost province. The two men were assigned to the 1st Battalion, 10th Aviation Regiment of the 10th Combat Aviation Brigade assigned to the 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum. Chief Warrant Officer 2 Gaudet was from Gladewater, Texas. Chief Warrant Officer 3 White was from Fort Collins, Colorado.

"I join with all New Yorkers in extending our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and fellow soldiers of Chief Warrant Officers Bradley Gaudet and Kenneth White," Governor Cuomo said. "These fallen soldiers were stationed at Fort Drum. We mourn their passing and we remember their service to our nation with pride."

Governor Cuomo has directed that the flags on all state buildings be lowered to half-staff in honor of and in tribute to our state's service members and those stationed in New York who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Honor the Sacrifice

2011-05-30T08:56:00.000-04:00

Read about Ron Capalaces’ childhood in Binghamton’s First Ward, or the recent death in Afghanistan of Spc. Brian D. Riley Jr. and you understand what Memorial Day is about.

It’s about sacrifice.

Riley, who called Binghamton home, died a couple of weeks ago in Kunar Province defending you and me – and an entire nation. His 5-year-old daughter, Trinity, will have to grow up with nothing but memories of a father who loved her very much.

Memories very much like what Capalaces has. His father, Pvt. Frank Capalaces, died in North Africa in World War II, when Capalaces wasn’t much older than Trinity.

Riley is just the latest casualty of war that we have seen. Capalaces’ story goes back 65 years. In between, we have lost neighbors in Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm and Iraq in addition to Afghanistan. And we shouldn’t forget those people – and those families – who sacrificed in all the wars before then that this nation has had to face.

If you see a veteran today – or an actively serving soldier, sailor, airman or Marine – say thanks. Thanks for the time, the commitment, the risk.

And if you see their relatives, say thanks for enduring the uncertainty, the fear and the loss. Because growing up without a father or other loved one is a very special sacrifice.

Senate passes bills to help veterans

2011-05-28T16:30:00.000-04:00

The state Senate passed a package of nine bills this week, in advance of Memorial Day, to honor and protect the veterans and active military personnel who keep America safe.

Two bills sponsored by Senator Michael H. Ranzenhofer of Amherst, help protect the parental rights of military personnel. Bill S.3228 prevents the courts from considering the potential for deployment as a detrimental factor when determining parental custody, so long as the parent provides a suitable child-care plan for the period of deployment.

Bill S.3192 lets a parent designate a short-term military service guardian during deployments. This guardian would only be designated if there is not another parent willing and legally capable of caring for the child.

“America’s distinguished service men and women put their lives on the line to defend our nation and protect our freedoms,” Ranzenhofer said. “Service to their country should not be considered as a determining factor in deciding the custody of their children. Even more so, they should have peace of mind knowing that their son or daughter is with a short-term military guardian while they are deployed overseas.”

The other bills:

• S. 5337, sponsored by Sen. John DeFrancisco of Syracuse, establishes a crime for the commercial use of the name, image, or likeness of any current or former member of the armed forces or the state militia.

• S.193, sponsored by Sen. George Maziarz of Newfane, allows certain disabled veterans to buy a lifetime sportsman license for hunting and fishing at a lower price.

• S.824, sponsored by Sen. Elizabeth Little of Queensbury, gives disabled veterans access, with a permit, to certain restricted bodies of water through the use of float planes.

• S.3222, sponsored by Ranzenhofer, provides for additional veteran real property owner exemptions when veterans are otherwise eligible, but not discharged from a current combat duty status.

• S.2497, sponsored by Sen. Roy McDonald of Saratoga, creates a list of suitable documents that support a veteran’s eligibility for real property tax exemptions.

• S.4569, sponsored by Sen. Greg Ball of Pawling, ensures that money paid as rent for non-military use of an armory would continue to be paid into a special account to pay operating costs for New York Army National Guard armories statewide.

• S.656A, sponsored by Sen. David Valesky of Oneida allows the creation of free fishing events that provide physical or emotional rehabilitation for veterans or active duty service members. No fishing license would be required to participate.

The bills have been sent to the Assembly.

U.S. Postal Service unveils Purple Heart "Forever" stamp

2011-05-10T12:33:00.001-04:00

A new U.S. Postal Service Purple Heart Stamp was unveiled May 7 at the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor in New Windsor, N.Y.

Thought to be the oldest military decoration in the world to still be in use, the Purple Heart honors the sacrifice of service men and women who have served and are serving in the United States military.

This new "Forever" stamp will cost 44 cents and will be sufficient first class postage even if rates go up. The effort to make the stamp a "Forever" stamp was led by Sen. Bill Larkin.

Larkin, a 23-year Army veteran with combat experience, campaigned to create the Purple Heart stamp in 2000, leading a letter-writing effort by the Military Order of the Purple Heart and other veterans’ organizations. The stamp was first issued in 2003.

Watch the video here.

But each time the cost of first-class postage rose, a new letter-writing campaign was necessary to keep the Purple Heart Stamp in circulation. The new classification means that Purple Heart postage stamp will continue in circulation without additional letter-writing campaigns.

You can show your support for the military personnel who dedicate their lives to protecting us by the simple act of how you choose your stamp. It’s an act of respect that all veterans deserve.

Please feel free to add your own honors or memories to the blog. You also can search for Purple Heart recipients.

Sen. Tom Libous and Sen. Bill Larkin view the new Purple Heart "Forever" stamp that Larkin worked so hard to create.

Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for New York Soldier

2011-05-05T22:00:00.000-04:00

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has directed that flags on state government buildings be flown at half-staff on Monday, May 9 in honor of a Westfield resident who was killed in action on May 2, in Kunar province, Afghanistan.

Army Sergeant Kevin W. White died of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 2^nd Battalion, 35^th Infantry Regiment, 3^rd Brigade Combat Team, 25^th Infantry Division, based at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii.

"In his hometown of Westfield and across the State, all New Yorkers join with the family, friends and fellow soldiers of Sergeant White in mourning his loss," Governor Cuomo said. "Sergeant White dedicated himself to serving his country after graduating from Westfield Academy and Central School in 2006."

Governor Cuomo has directed that the flags on all state buildings be lowered to half-staff in honor of and in tribute to our state's service members and those stationed in New York who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Flags to Be Flown at Half-Staff for Ft. Drum Soldier

2011-05-04T16:00:00.000-04:00

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has directed that flags on state government buildings be flown at half-staff on Friday, May 6 in honor of a Fort Drum soldier who was killed in action on April 28, in Afghanistan.

Army Specialist Preston J. Dennis died when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan. He was assigned to the 1^st Battalion, 32^nd Infantry Regiment, 3^rd Brigade Combat Team, 10^th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y. Specialist Dennis was from Redding, California.

"On behalf of all New Yorkers, I extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Specialist Preston Dennis," Governor Cuomo said. "We are saddened at the death of this young soldier, and we join with Specialist Dennis' fellow soldiers at Fort Drum in mourning his passing and honoring his service."

Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for Ft. Drum Soldier

2011-04-28T10:59:00.000-04:00

Governor Cuomo has directed that flags be flown at half-staff on Thurs., April 28 in honor of a Fort Drum soldier who died in Kapisa Province, Afghanistan on April 23.

Chief Warrant Officer Terry L. Varnadore II was assigned to the 1^st Attack Reconnaissance Battalion of the 10^th Mountain Division's 10^th Combat Aviation Brigade and died when his helicopter crashed due to an undetermined cause that is still under investigation.

Governor Cuomo has directed the flags on all state buildings to be lowered to half-staff in honor of and tribute to our state's service members who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for Fort Drum Soldiers

2011-04-21T11:11:00.000-04:00

Governor Cuomo has directed that flags be flown at half-staff on Mon., April 25 in honor of three Fort Drum soldiers who died in Nimroz Province, Afghanistan on April 16.

Specialist Paul J. Atim, Private 1st Class Joel A. Ramirez, and Specialist Charles J. Wren all died of wounds received when insurgents attacked their unit with an improvised explosive device. They were assigned to 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment of the 10th Mountain Division's 3rd Brigade Combat Team.

Governor Cuomo has directed the flags on all state buildings to be lowered to half-staff in honor of and tribute to our state's service members who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

State Senator's Campaign Helps Make Purple Heart Stamp a "Forever" Stamp

2011-04-13T14:01:00.000-04:00

The U.S. Postal Service has classified the Purple Heart postage stamp as a “Forever” stamp, meaning it will continue in popular circulation, following an effort that Sen. Bill Larkin started 11 years ago.

Larkin, a 23-year Army veteran with combat experience, campaigned to create the Purple Heart stamp in 2000, leading a letter-writing effort by the Military Order of the Purple Heart and other veterans’ organizations. The stamp was first issued in 2003.

But each time the cost of first-class postage rose, a new letter-writing campaign was necessary to keep the Purple Heart Stamp in circulation. The new classification means that Purple Heart postage stamp will continue in circulation without additional letter-writing campaigns.

“From Gen. George Washington to Gen. David Petraeus, our military leaders have awarded the Purple Heart to honor almost two million Americans who have been wounded in battle,” said Larkin, of Cornwall-on-Hudson. “I appreciate the cooperation of the U.S. Postal Service and their recognition of the importance of this stamp to honor our military heroes.”

“You can show your support for the military personnel who dedicate their lives to protecting us by the simple act of how you choose your stamp,” said Sen. Tom Libous. “It’s an act of respect that all veterans deserve.”

The U.S. Postal Service will officially unveil and issue the Purple Heart “Forever” stamp in San Diego on May 5.

Flags to be flown at half staff to honor NY Veteran

2011-04-06T18:19:00.000-04:00

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has directed that flags on state government buildings be flown at half-staff on Friday, April 8, in honor of Army Sergeant Michael S. Lammerts, a Tonawanda resident, who died in Afghanistan on April 4.

Sergeant Lammerts was assigned to 1st Battalion, 84th Field Artillery Regiment of the 170th Infantry Brigade Combat Team based in Baumholder, Germany. He died of wounds from small arms fire in Faryab Province, Afghanistan.

"On behalf of all New Yorkers I wish to express our sympathy and condolences to the family, friends, and fellow soldiers of Sergeant Lammerts," Governor Cuomo said. "We will honor his service to our nation and remember his sacrifice."

Governor Cuomo has directed that the flags on all state buildings be lowered to half-staff in honor of, and in tribute to, our state's service members who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Construction seminar to help veterans find civilian jobs

2011-03-30T12:17:00.000-04:00

Frank Johnson, a Chenango County contractor and handyman, just wants to help veterans return to civilian life.

“I’m just an ordinary Joe who watches the news like I’m addicted to it,” Johnson said. And that’s why he’s organizing a two-week seminar for veterans to learn construction skills.

“If I can help these guys any way I can, I’ll do it,” he said.

Johnson is working with the Oakdale Mall in Johnson City and area suppliers to offer the two-week seminar May 16 to May 28. The first week will be spent in classroom instruction. The second week will be spent building a shed – with electricity, wallboard and all the elements of residential construction squeezed into an eight-by-twelve structure at the Chenango Forks Fire Department Station 1.

“Maybe this will give them a leg up when they’re looking for a job,” said Johnson, the son of a Marine who couldn’t enlist because he failed the physical.

The shed will be raffled off, with proceeds to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project. “We’re not asking anybody for money,” Johnson said, but added he’d appreciate people with specialized construction skills volunteering to teach for a couple of hours.

“We can’t do enough to thank our veterans, or to help them return to civilian life after they’ve worked so hard to protect us,” said Sen. Tom Libous. “If this program can help a veteran find a job, it’s well worth the effort.”

Senate passes bills to honor, support veterans

2011-03-16T15:39:00.000-04:00

The state Senate has passed a package of bills to support veterans living in New York, and – when the time comes – honoring their memory.

Top among the bills was S.3901 sponsored by Sen. Lee Zeldin of Shirley that would limit protests at military funerals. The Specialist Thomas Wilwerth Military Dignity Act is named for an Iraq War Veteran who died in combat in 2006.

The bill prohibits protests within 2,500 feet of military services, funerals, and processions of deceased service members unless the protest organizers post a bond to defray increased security costs. Protestors would also not be permitted within 500 feet of funeral activities and would have to apply for a permit with the state Division of Veterans' Affairs.

“This is a good balance that protects the memories of the war fighters who protect us, the emotions of the people who mourn them and the rights our military people are so dedicated to defending,” said Sen. Tom Libous. “I’m pleased my colleague Sen. Zeldin, was so committed to its success.”

Zeldin is a U.S. Army Reserve captain. He was deployed to Iraq in the summer of 2006 with an infantry battalion of fellow paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division.

“I would like to issue a real challenge to the people who want to protest the funerals of our fallen heroes,” said Terry Wilwerth, Spc. Wilwerth’s father. “Our soldiers fight at home and abroad for our freedoms. If the protestors can give me one reason why they should be protesting instead of kissing and thanking our heroes, then I’ll listen.”

The bill has been sent to the Assembly, where it is sponsored by Assemblyman Dean Murray of East Patchogue. It was part of a package of Veterans bills that would:

• Create the crime of “cemetery desecration of a veteran,” a Class E felony. It would permit community service at desecrated cemeteries as a condition for probation or conditional release.

• Prohibit the unauthorized sale of veterans’ commemorative property from a cemetery, including artifacts, statues or other physical memorabilia that is more than 75 years old.

• Direct the adjutant general to present a U.S. flag to the person disposing of the body of a member of the National Guard, Air National Guard or Naval Militia who dies while in service to New York or the country.

• Permit the state Department of Environmental Conservation to organize fishing events that provide physical or emotional rehabilitation for veterans or active-duty members without their needing to get fishing licenses.

Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for New York Soldier

2011-03-04T09:17:00.000-05:00

Governor Cuomo has directed that flags be flown at half-staff on Monday, March 7, in honor of Army Specialist David R. Fahey Jr., a Yorktown resident, who died in Afghanistan on Feb. 28.

Specialist Fahey died of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit on Kandahar Province using an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 504^th Military Police Battalion, of the 42^nd Military Police Brigade, based at Joint Base Lewis-McCord in Washington state.

Governor Cuomo has directed that the flags on all state buildings be lowered to half-staff in honor of, and in tribute to, our state's service members who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for New York Soldier

2011-02-08T15:44:00.000-05:00

Governor Cuomo has directed that flags be flown at half-staff on Thursday, Feb. 10, in honor of a Jamestown Marine Corps Reservist who died Feb. 7, in Afghanistan.

Lance Corporal Aaron M. Swanson died while conducting combat operations in Helmand Province. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment of the 4th Marine Division. His reserve unit is based in Buffalo.

Governor Cuomo has directed that the flags on all state buildings be lowered to half-staff in honor of, and in tribute to, our state's service members who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Governor Cuomo orders flags flown at half mast after deaths of three soldiers in Afghanistan

2011-01-16T17:40:00.001-05:00

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has directed that flags on State government buildings be flown at half-staff on Tuesday, January 18 in honor of three Fort Drum soldiers who died in Ghazni Province, Afghanistan on January 12.

The three soldiers died of wounds received from an improvised explosive device. Killed were: Army Sergeant Omar Aceves of El Paso, Texas; Specialist Jarrid L. King of Erie, Pennsylvania; and Private 1st Class Benjamin G. Moore of Robbinsville, New Jersey. The three soldiers were assigned to the 7th Engineer Battalion of the 10th Sustainment Brigade of the 10th Mountain Division.

State Museum hosts exhibit dedicated to National Guard Soldiers

2011-01-02T19:25:00.002-05:00

The State Museum in Albany is currently hosting an exhibition called "Citizen Soldier: New York's National Guard in the American Century." The exhibition traces the history of New York's National Guard through several wars as well as natural disasters and national emergencies. It will be on display until March 31, 2011.

If you can't make it to Albany to see the exhibition, you can go to the Museum's website to see the virtual exhibits:

Flags to be Flown at Half Staff for New York Soldier

2010-12-08T20:21:00.000-05:00

Governor David A. Paterson today directed that flags on State government buildings be flown at half-staff on Friday, December 10, in honor of a Brooklyn resident who died in Afghanistan on December 5.

Marine Sergeant Nicholas Aleman died while supporting combat operations in Paktia Province. He was assigned to the Deployment Processing Command-East at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

"On behalf of all New Yorkers I want to express our sympathy and condolences to the friends, family and fellow Marines of Sergeant Aleman," Governor Paterson said. "This brave young man served our nation with pride and distinction, and we will honor his dedication and his memory."

Governor Paterson has directed the flags on all State buildings to be lowered to half-staff in honor and tribute to our State's service members who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Endwell native facing danger to protect America

2010-12-07T10:21:00.007-05:00

We honor veterans for being willing to go into harm's way to protect oru nation. They deserve it. And on a day like today, Dec. 7, we think about their commitment more than ever.

But let's take this opportunity to thank the people who are doing that job, right now, whether at home or abroad.

People like Command Master Chief Martin K. King. He's an Endwell native and the senior-most enlisted sailor aboard the U.S.S. George Washington. The GW is in the waters around the Korean peninsula making sure the world -- and North Korea -- understand that the United States will protect its interests around the world.

Thousands of people from Broome, Tioga and Chenango counties serve in the U.S. military. Some will see combat. Some won't. But they're sacrificing their time -- and perhaps their lives -- for our sake.

Will King be in harm's way? We hope not. And if he does face danger, we hope he comes through it safely. Either way, we're grateful he's willing to be there to protect us.

2010 Veterans Day Events in Broome, Chenango and Tioga Counties

2010-11-10T14:47:00.008-05:00

Broome: Binghamton

11:00 AM - Armistice Day Ceremony Veterans fοr Peace wіll bе celebrating Veterans Day roots іn Armistice Day rite аt thе First Congressional Church, 30 Main Street

2:00 PM - Annual Veterans Day Parade starting frοm Home / intersection Mather Street tο War Memorial fοr аll thе Broome County Veterans Memorial Arena

Chenango: Oxford

7:30 AM - Oxford American Legion will hold its annual Veterns Breakfast located on 17 South Washington Avenue

11:00 AM - Veterans Day service at the Oxford American Legion Post 376 17 South Washington Avenue

Tioga: Newark Valley

11:00 AM - Veterans Day service at the Tioga County Veterans Memorial in the Courthouse Square

3:30 PM - A dedication of the newly installed sign identifying State Route 38 as Vietnam Veterans Memorial Highway of Valor on the corners of Route 38 and Route 38B in Newark Valley

4:00 PM - Dinner to honor veterans from Newark Valley, Berkshire and Richford will be held at the Newark Valley Fire Station

Point Senior Community Center Veterans Remembrance Day

2010-11-10T14:41:00.000-05:00

The annual Whitney Point Senior Community Center Veterans Remembrance Day luncheon and program will take place on Wednesday, November 3rd at the Center on Strongs Place in the Village. The veterans and other guests will gather beginning at 10:30 a.m. and the program beginning at 11 a.m.

An exhibit room will be available and all veterans are encouraged to bring in memorabilia and photos of their time spent in the military. Retirees are encouraged to wear their uniforms and all veterans are encouraged to wear their medals and ribbons. Bring your pictures, uniforms and stories.

The program includes: Sgt. Rick Yarosh, U.S. Army retired veteran of Iraq who will be speaking; former Marine Corp. Trumpeter Al Rood; the honoring of each branch of the military, special music and a variety of door prizes, including fresh home baked apple pies.

Sgt. Yarosh is a native of Windsor N.Y., graduating Windsor Central High in 2000. He was captain of his high school wrestling and football teams and inducted into the wrestling Hall of Fame.

Sgt. Yarosh joined the Army in May of 2004 and trained at Fort Knox, Kentucky to become a Cavalry Scout, then on to Ft. Hood, Texas where he trained further as a Bradley Driver and Gunner with the 1st Brigade, 4th Infantry Division. He was deployed to Kuwait in December of 2005 and then to Baghdad, Iraq on January1, 2006, assigned to Camp Falcon Abu Grahib, Patrol Base Courage and Camp Liberty.

On September 1, 2006 the Sgt. sustained 60% burns over his total body surface area including burns to his face, hands, legs, arms and torso. His right leg, below the knee, was amputated as well as sustaining the loss of both hands. He was 6 months in the hospital at that time and has undergone 30 surgeries since. He has since been retired by the U.S. Army.

During his recuping time, and between surgeries, Sgt. Yarosh has spoken to many youth groups and school assemblies, sports teams and camps, veterans groups and nursing groups.

This brave young man speaks of the most important things in his life being: his Faith, family and friends. “I am very proud of my military service,” states the Sgt., “and very proud of all the veterans.” He emphasizes that he is thankful “For the opportunity to defend a free nation.”

Military and civilian, alike, will not want to miss hearing and getting to meet one of America’s Heroes. All people of all ages are invited to this special yearly event.

The menu includes: Roast beef and mashed potatoes with gravy, Scandinavian blend vegetables, dinner roll, Strawberry short cake w/whipped topping and assorted beverages.
The Veterans meals are complimentary.

Reservations are a must for both the veteran and other guests. Call no later than noon, Tuesday November 2nd by call 692-3405.

Flags Fly at Half Mast for Fort Drum Soldier

2010-09-23T20:19:00.000-04:00

Governor Paterson has directed that flags be flown at half-staff on Friday, September 24, in honor of a Fort Drum soldier who was killed in Kaftar Khan, Afghanistan on September 18, 2010.

Army Corporal Joshua Harton was killed when his unit came under fire from insurgents armed with rocket propelled grenades and small arms. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 6th Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, based at Fort Drum, NY.

Governor Paterson has directed the flags on all State buildings to be lowered to half-staff in honor and tribute to our State's service members who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for New York Soldier

2010-08-20T09:56:00.000-04:00

Flags will be flown at half-staff on Monday, August 23, by order of Governor David A. Paterson, in honor of Army Staff Sergeant Derek J. Farley, a Nassau resident who was killed in Farah, Afghanistan on August 17.

Staff Sergeant Farley, an explosives ordnance disposal expert, was killed when an improvised explosive device he was attempting to disarm detonated. He was a member of the 702nd Explosive Ordnance Company, 18th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 16th Sustainment Brigade of the 21st Theater Sustainment Command based in Grafenwoehr, Germany.

Governor Paterson has directed the flags on all state buildings to be lowered to half-staff in honor and tribute to our state's service members who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for New York Soldier

2010-06-25T14:58:00.000-04:00

Governor Paterson has directed that flags be flown at half-staff on Monday, June 28, in honor of Army Private First Class David Miller, a Wilton resident who died in Afghanistan on June 21.

Private First Class Miller was killed when a suicide bomber detonated next to his dismounted patrol. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) which is stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.

Governor Paterson has directed the flags on all State buildings to be lowered to half-staff in honor and tribute to our State's service members who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for New York Soldier

2010-06-22T12:14:00.000-04:00

Governor Paterson has directed that flags be flown at half-staff on Wednesday, June 23, in honor of Specialist Benjamin D. Osborn, a Queensbury resident who died in Afghanistan on June 15.

Specialist Osborn died of wounds he sustained when his unit was attacked by small arms and rocket propelled grenades in Konar, Afghanistan. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) which is stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.

Governor Paterson has directed the flags on all State buildings to be lowered to half-staff in honor and tribute to our State's service members who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

State Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for Fort Drum Soldier

2010-06-21T06:36:00.001-04:00

Governor Paterson has directed that flags be flown at half-staff on Monday, June 21, in honor of Harrisonburg, Virginia native Army Specialist Brian Anderson, who was killed in action on June 12 in Afghanistan.

Specialist Anderson died of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his vehicle using an improvised explosive device while he was on patrol in Za Khel, Afghanistan. He was assigned to the 1^st Battalion, 87^th Infantry on the 10^th Mountain Division's 1^st Brigade Combat Team.

"On behalf of all citizens of New York I extend our condolences to the family, friends and fellow soldiers of Specialist Anderson," Governor Patterson said. "Although he was not a native New Yorker, we consider Specialist Anderson and all soldiers stationed at Fort Drum to be one of us."

Governor Paterson has directed the flags on all state buildings to be flown at half-staff in honor and tribute to our State's soldiers who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for NY Soldier

2010-06-15T15:04:00.000-04:00

Governor Paterson has directed that flags be flown at half-staff on Thursday, June 17, in honor of Marine Corps Lance Corporal Michael Plank, a Cameron Mills resident who died while supporting combat operations in Helmand Province, Afghanistan June 9.

Lance Corporal Plank was assigned to the 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, based at Camp Pendleton, California.

Governor Paterson has directed the flags on all State buildings to be lowered to half-staff in honor and tribute to our State's service members who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for NY Soldier

2010-06-14T13:56:00.000-04:00

Governor Paterson has directed that flags be flown at half-staff on Tuesday, June 15, in honor of Calcium, NY resident Sergeant Erick Klusacek, who died in Afghanistan on June 8.

Sergeant Erick Klusacek died in Gerda Seral, Afghanistan as the result of injuries sustained in a non-combat related incident. He was assigned to the 1^st Squadron, 33^rd Cavalry Regiment, 3^rd Brigade Combat Team, a part of the 101^st Airborne Division (Air Assault) which is stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.

"On behalf of all citizens of the Empire State, I wish to extend our condolences to the family, friends and fellow soldiers of Sergeant Klusack," Governor Patterson said. "We regret his death, but we honor his service to our nation. He will not be forgotten."

Governor Paterson has directed the flags on all state buildings to be flown at half-staff in honor and tribute to our State's soldiers who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Flags to be Flown at Half Staff for NY Soldier

2010-06-09T16:26:00.000-04:00

Flags will be flown at half-staff on Thursday, June 10, by order of Governor David A. Paterson, in honor of a Fort Drum soldier who was killed in Afghanistan on June 4.

Army First Lieutenant Joseph J. Theinert, of Sag Harbor, N.Y., was killed when an improvised explosive device was detonated near his dismounted patrol. A member of the 1^st Squadron, 71^st Cavalry Regiment, part of the 10^th Mountain Division based at Fort Drum, New York, he was also a member of the New York Army National Guard.

Governor Paterson has directed the flags on all state buildings to be lowered to half-staff in honor and tribute to our state's service members who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

New York Senate honors heroic Berkshire Veteran

2010-06-03T12:26:00.000-04:00

Joe Ceurter of Berkshire was inducted on June 1 into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame.

“It is a very great honor for me to nominate Joe for induction into the hall of fame, but even more of an honor to shake his hand and to represent him,” said Sen. Tom Libous. “Joe epitomizes the courage and dedication we require of our military personnel. Even among a proud and honorable group, Joe stands out. I thank him for his service – I thank them all.”

Click here to watch video of Senator Libous honoring Joe Ceurter.

Joe Ceurter of Berkshire was a young solder serving in the U.S. Army’s occupation force in Japan after World War II when he was suddenly thrust into the unexpected and bloody conflict today known as the Korean War.

In one brutal engagement with the North Korean Army, a mortar shell exploded near Ceurter, knocking him unconscious. Thinking he was dead, his unit left him behind as it was forced to retreat or be overrun.

Ceurter woke up to find he was being beaten with a rifle butt. He quickly leveled his rifle and killed his attacker, then continued firing on the enemy soldiers, eventually forcing them to retreat.

Ceurter was awarded two Silver Stars – the miltiary’s third-highest decoration -- two Bronze Stars and five Purple Hearts, for each time he was wounded.

Ceurter came home after the war to work on his family farm, but he never stopped serving America or his fellow veterans. He became a member and later commander of Veterans of Foreign Wars Glenn A. Warner Post 1371 in Owego.

For many years, he has been an integral member of the VFW Honor Guard, which provides ceremonial services at the burials of fallen veterans. Today, his service with the VFW Honor Guard includes meeting the remains of soldiers who have fallen in Iraq and Afghanistan to escort them from Binghamton Regional Airport on their final trips home for burial.

In April 2009, Ceurter’s regular service allowed him to pay special tribute to a fellow veteran of the Korean War. On Nov. 1, 1950. Army Sgt. Dougall H. Espy’s unit was attacked and overrun by Chinese forces near Unsan, Korea. Espy was listed as missing and presumed dead. His body remained on the battlefield for 44 years, until the North Korean government found them and returned them – and other remains – to the U.S. Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory. His remains were later identified.

Ceurter organized a Memorial Honor Guard consisting of hundreds of fellow veterans and citizens lining the streets of Elmira Heights from the church holding Espy’s funeral to Woodlawn National Cemetery, which became his final resting place.

Joe Ceurter’s willingness to stand for hours in a cold rain once again demonstrated his dedication to honoring America, its veterans and fallen heroes.

Now 83, Ceurter participates daily in activities at his VFW Post 1371 and serves today’s generation of veterans by organizing the purchase and delivery of gift packages to active duty military personnel in overseas posts, particularly in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Joseph W. Ceurter never forgets his country or his fellow veterans. His daily life is filled with the highest traditions of the New York State Veterans Hall of Fame.

Memorial Day Events in Broome, Chenango and Tioga Counties

2010-05-25T12:29:00.014-04:00

Broome County

Monday, May 31

9:00 AM

- Memorial Service at First Ward Park in Binghamton

10:00 AM

- Memorial Service at the First Ward American Legion Post 1254 at 1 Grace St in Binghamton

10:30 AM

- Western Broome Memorial Day Parade begins at the Huron parking lot in Endicott and proceeds to Washington Avenue, concluding with a Memorial Service at Memorial Park in Vestal

11:00 AM

- Whitney Point Memorial Day Parade begins at the American Legion on 119th Street in

Whitney Point

- Lisle Memorial Day Parade begins at Lisle Junior High on Center Avenue in Lisle followed by a Remembrance Ceremony and community picnic

2:00 PM

- Binghamton Memorial Day Parade begins at the American Legion Post 80 on Main Street and

ends with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Broome County Veterans Memorial at the Arena

Chenango County

Monday, May 31

9:30 AM

- Bainbridge Memorial Day Parade begins at the Greenlawn Cemetery in Bainbridge

- Oxford Memorial Day Parade begins at the American Legion on South Washington Avenue in Oxford followed by ceremonies at the Riverview Cemetery and the Oxford Veterans Home

10:00 AM

- Norwich Memorial Day Parade begins at the VFW on East Main Street in Norwich

- Greene Memorial Day Parade begins at the Moore Memorial Library in Greene

- Afton Memorial Day Parade begins at the Afton Free Library on Main Street in Afton

- South Otselic Memorial Day Parade begins at the Otselic Valley Junior/Senior High School on Maple Avenue in South Otselic

10:30 AM - Unadilla Memorial Day Parade begins at the Community House on Main Street in Unadilla

Tioga County

Sunday, May 30

10:00 AM

- Owego Memorial Service at the Nazarene Church, State Route 17C

Monday, May 31

6:00 AM

- Owego Flag Lowering Ceremony at the Veteran’s Memorial in Courthouse Square, Owego

9:00 AM

- Reading of the Names of Deceased Veterans of Tioga County at Veteran’s Memorial in

Courthouse Square, Owego

10:00 AM

- Candor American Legion Parade starts at the Candor Legion on State Route 96

- Greater Valley Veterans Memorial Day Parade starts in downtown Athens, PA

- Owego Memorial Day Parade starts at the police station on Temple St. in Owego

10:30 AM

- Nichols Memorial Day Parade starts at Cady Library in Nichols

New York State Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for NY Soldiers

2010-05-24T14:52:00.000-04:00

Flags are being flown at half-staff today, by order of Governor David A. Paterson, in honor of two Fort Drum soldiers who were killed in Afghanistan on May 18.

Lieutenant Colonel Thomas P. Balkofer and Lieutenant Paul R. Bartz were killed when enemy forces attacked their convoy with a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device. The officers were assigned to Headquarters Battalion of the 10^th Mountain Division and lived at Fort Drum with their families.

Governor Paterson has directed the flags on all state buildings to be lowered to half-staff in honor and tribute to our state's service members who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

New York Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for New York Soldier

2010-03-09T14:36:00.000-05:00

Governor Paterson has directed that flags be flown at half-staff on Wednesday, March 10, in honor of Niagara Falls native Specialist Alan Dikcis who was killed in Afghanistan on Friday, March 5.

Specialist Dikcis was killed when his vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device in Kandahar. He was assigned to the 630^th Engineer Company, 7^th Engineer Battalion of the 20^th Engineer Brigade, based in Fort Drum.

Governor Paterson has directed the flags on all State buildings to be lowered to half-staff in tribute to the State's service member who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

New York Flags to be Flown at Half Staff for New York Soldier

2010-01-29T13:34:00.001-05:00

Governor Paterson has directed that flags be flown at half-staff on Monday, Feb. 1, in honor of a Marine from Hornell who died in Afghanistan on Jan. 24.

Marine Lance Corporal Zachary Smith died while supporting combat operations in Helmand Province. He was assigned to the 1^st Battalion, 6^th Marine Regiment, 2^nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, which is headquartered at Camp Lejeune, N.C.

Governor Paterson has directed the flags on all State buildings to be lowered to half-staff in tribute to the State's service member who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

New York State Flags to be Flown at Half Staff for New York Soldier

2010-01-28T08:52:00.000-05:00

Governor David Paterson has directed that flags be flown at half-staff on Thursday, Jan. 28, in honor of a Yonkers soldier who was killed in a vehicular accident in Iraq on Jan. 20.

Private first Class Gifford Hurt was killed when his military vehicle rolled over. He was assigned to the 1^st Battalion, 14^th Field Artillery of the 214^th Fires Brigade, which is assigned to the 4th Infantry Division and based at Fort Sill, Oklahoma.

Governor Paterson has directed the flags on all state buildings to be lowered to half-staff in honor of the state's service members who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

New York State Flags to Be Flown at Half-Staff for Ft. Drum Soldier

2010-01-05T11:54:00.000-05:00

Governor Paterson has directed that flags be flown at half-staff on Wed., January 6, in honor of a Fort Drum soldier who died in Baghdad on January 1.

Army Specialist Brushaun Anderson, a resident of Columbus, Georgia, died of wounds suffered in a non-combat related incident. Specialist Anderson was a member of the 2^nd Battalion, 14^th Infantry Regiment of the 10^th Mountain Division’s 2^nd Brigade Combat Team.

Governor Paterson has directed the flags on all State buildings to be lowered to half-staff in tribute to the State’s service member who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

New York State Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff for Ft. Drum Soldier

2009-12-17T09:47:00.000-05:00

Governor David Paterson has directed that flags be flown at half-staff December 17, in honor of a Fort Drum soldier who was wounded in Afghanistan on December 3 and later died of his injuries in Landstuhl, Germany.

Staff Sergeant Dennis Hansen, assigned to the 1^st Battalion, 32^nd Infantry of the 10^th Mountain Division’s 3^rd Brigade Combat team, was injured December 3 when insurgents attacked his unit in Logar Province, Afghanistan. He died of those wounds on December 7, at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany.

Governor Paterson has directed the flags on all state buildings to be lowered to half-staff in honor of the state’s service members who are killed in action or are wounded or die in a combat zone.

2009-12-04T11:12:00.000-05:00

Governor David Paterson has directed that flags be flown at half-staff tomorrow, December 3, in honor of a Fort Drum soldier who died Nov. 27 in Iraq.

Private First Class Michael Rogers, a resident of White Sulphur Springs, Montana, died in a non-combat related incident at Forward Operating Base Hammer, located east of Baghdad. He was a member of the 210^th Brigade Support Battalion of the 10^th Mountain Division’s 2^nd Brigade Combat Team.

Share your stories or just say "thanks" to the brave men and women who serve our country.

2009-11-08T15:40:00.000-05:00

If you know a veteran that's served please feel free to leave a few words about him or her below and we'll post them here.

If you just want to say thanks to all of the brave men and women who've sacrificed to protect our country, that's great too. All comments will be posted unless they contain something inappropriate.

Rick Yarosh

2009-11-07T15:01:00.001-05:00

Recently, a portrait of Sgt. Rich Yarosh of Windsor was hung in the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery. It was a fitting tribute to a veteran who sacrificed so much for the rest of us. Rick was in the turret of a Bradley assault vehicle when it hit a roadside bomb in Baghdad on September 1, 2006.

He was burned over 60% of his body.

After several years of surgery he's back home in Windsor.

Robert Elseth

2009-11-07T11:50:00.000-05:00

Lt. Cmdr. Robert Elseth, a Vestal native, loved kids enough that he coached soccer teams even before his daughter was born. Enough that after a decade of active duty with the Navy, he joined the Naval Reserves to spend more time with his family.

But on September 11, 2001, 37-year-old Elseth, who had founded a defense consulting firm, was at the Pentagon on the one day in history when the Pentagon was a combat zone.

He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery.

Joseph Angelino

2009-11-06T11:02:00.000-05:00

Joseph Angelino hadn't even been awarded his first Purple Heart when he earned his second. Angelino, a Norwich native and now the city's police chief, joined the Marine Corps as a young man, following in the footsteps of his mentor, former Chenengo County Sheriff Joseph Benenati. He trained as a military policeman.

Sgt. Major Angelino was first sergeant with the 25th Marines on September 5, 2005, in Anbar prvince in Iraq. An improvised bomb exploded near his vehicle while he was moving to help an ambushed Marine patrol. Less than a month later, while recuperating, his base camp came under attack by mortar fire and he was wounded again. The injuries included a broeken jaw, a knee injury, and slight deafness in one ear.

"I am truly hjmble to wear the same decoration that others who are much, much worse off than i am also wear, "Angelino told a reporter later.

Michael Rounds

2009-11-05T11:56:00.001-05:00

A native of Greene, Rounds commanded the 3rd Brigade Combat Team in Iraq. His mission in 2004 was to protect 1.9 million Iraqis from insurgents, using 5,100 soldiers equipped with a new Army fighting vehicle, the 19-ton Stryker.

Along the way, he had to devise and prove new techniques for fighting with equipment that packs more power than a light infantry unit like the 10th Mountain Division, and greater speed but less firepower than the M1-A1 Abrams tank.

Rounds was promoted to brigadier general and is now vice director for operational plans and joint force development on the Joint Staff at the Pentagon.

Ronald Palmer

2009-11-04T13:45:00.000-05:00

Pvt. Ronnie Palmer of Binghamton was a rifleman in the 31st Regimental Combat Team in November 1950. But his unit was ordered to march north along the east side of the Chosin Reservoir in Korea, with the 1st Marine Division marching up the west side. The Chinese army crossed the Yalu River to escalate the war. The Americans were outnumbered at least 6 to 1, but held the Chinese off for five days, despite heavy casualties and low ammunition.

Late on Dec. 1, Palmer and his hundred-man company were the spearhead of a retreat south, but were cut off by Chinese soldiers. They charged the Chinese to protect the wounded behind them and create a breakout. But the attack was beaten off with 50 percent casualties, and the survivors of the regimental combat team scattered, some to survive temperatures of 35 below zero before finding safety the next day.

Ronnie Palmer was never seen again.

Joseph Benenati

2009-11-04T12:27:00.000-05:00

People don't necessarily think "South Pacific" or "Bronze Star" when they think of Joseph Benenati. They think "20-year sheriff of Chenango County."

Benenati, now 95, was a state police trooper protecting the family of Franklin Roosevelt when Roosevelt's son said Benenati would be a good Marine. Benenati agreed, and enlisted in World War II, seeing combat, a Bronze Star, and a battlefield commission in the South Pacific.

After the war, he was part of the state police contingent that raided an organized crime meeting in Apalachin in 1957, and became a 20-year sheriff of Chenango County, where he mentored a number of young people, including Norwich Police Chief Joseph Angelino and Chenango County Sheriff Thomas Loughren.

He also established a number of scholarships and awards, including one honoring his brother Frank, a Marine who was killed in 1953 in Korea.

Benenati is retired and living at the Oxford Veterans Home.

Rebecca Halstead

2009-11-04T11:50:00.000-05:00

A native of Candor, Halstead was one of the 104 women in the second West Point class to accept women. She was also the first female West Point graduate to be promoted to general.

She was the commanding general of 3rd Corps Support Command, supporting Army Europe and 7th Army, including Operation Iraqi Freedom. She was later the Army Ordnance chief, commanding the Army Ordnance Center and commandant of the Army Ordnance Schools.

She retired earlier this year.

James Glass

2009-11-03T17:55:00.000-05:00

Maj. James Glass represents a new face of the military in America today. He has been a reservist for years. But nowadays, military reservists are active almost as much as the regular military.

In civilian life, Glass is an operating room nurse at Binghamton General Hospital. But since the invasion of Iraq in 2003, Glass has spent more time in uniform than at home. He completed a tour of duty at a hospital in Kuwait at the opening of the war, stabilizing wounded soldiers as they came out of combat. Later, he spent 15 months at a military hospital in Landstuhl, Germany, caring for those soldiers as they left the combat theater.

Now, Glass is in the middle of his third year-long tour in five years. This time, he moves to the emergency room at Landstuhl from the operating room.

Julian Strong Lake III

2009-11-03T17:35:00.000-05:00

A three-war combat veteran, Lake flew combat assignments in the Pacific during World War II and Korea a few years later. He commanded a ship in the Tonkin Gulf in Vietnam, and was commander of the first active F-4 squadron in the Navy. He was captain of the U.S.S. John F. Kennedy from September 1969 to September 1970.

However, he is best known for writing the book on modern electronic warfare. Literally. As an admiral, Lake developed electronic warfare technology and doctrine, including development of the EA-6 A/B, submarine electronic intelligence technology and other aircraft and e-weapons systems. His papers are still cited in discussions of electronic warfare.

He retired as a vice admiral and now lives on Binghamton's West Side.

Charles Edward Bilbrey II

2009-11-03T16:08:00.000-05:00

Spc. C. Edward Bilbrey of Owego volunteered for the Army even before he graduated from Owego Free Academy in 2004. He wanted to become a Ranger.

He was, in the interim, assigned to the 7th Cavalry Regiment-the same regiment George Custer commanded at the Little Bighorn. The regiment, in turn, was assigned to the 3rd Infantry Division.

Bilbrey and his unit were assigned to Iraq in January 2007, where Bilbrey volunteered for dangerous assignments and quickly wrote home to have his family send him candy to give to Iraqi children.

On July 26, 2007, he was patrolling with his unit in Saqlawiyah, Iraq, when an improvised bomb exploded, killing him and two other soldiers.

Gregory Fusco

2009-11-03T13:35:00.000-05:00

Electrician's Mate 2nd Class Gregory Fusco joined the Navy right after graduating from Union-Endicott High School in 1954 where his friends knew him as the happy-go-lucky guy who played bass drum in the marching band. After a few years in the surface fleet, he volunteered for duty aboard nuclear submarines.

On April 10, 1963, Fusco was aboard the U.S.S. Thresher during a training dive off Portsmouth, N.H. But at 9:13 a.m. the boat reported that it had encountered difficulties and was trying to surface. At 9:17 a.m. observers got a garbled message and nothing more. The Thresher sank 8,600 feet to the bottom taking with it four observers, 17 civilian technicians and its entire crew of 96 including Greg Fusco. It was the worse submarine loss in U.S. history.

A monument, shaped like a submarine conning tower, memorializes Fusco on the same field where he marched in the Union-Endicott band.

Lester Stone

2009-11-02T19:18:00.000-05:00

Harpursville native Lester Stone joined the Army in 1967. On March 3, 1969, Sgt. Stone was a squad leader in Quang Ngai province when his unit was attacked by more than a hundred North Vietnamese soldiers.

When a machine gunner was wounded, Stone took over the weapon and provided covering fire while another injured soldier was dragged to safety. In an effort to dislodge him the North Vietnamese charged his gun. He fired on his knees, saving a number of Americans, before being killed himself.

He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor and is buried in the Chenango Valley Cemetery.

Lawrence David Peters

2009-11-02T18:11:00.000-05:00

Lawrence David Peters was a Johnson City native and a graduate of Binghamton North High School. Peters volunteered to join the Marine Corps in 1963.

On September 4, 1967, Sgt. Peters led a squad in Quang Tin Province in an attack on an entrenched enemy. He was shot three times but continued leading his Marines. He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. He is buried at Chenango Valley Cemetery.

Elijah Curry

2009-11-02T17:50:00.000-05:00

One of the last two Broome County veterans of World War I, Curry had a second war to fight. As an African-American in a segregated army, Curry had to maintain the favor of white officers to avoid transfer to a unit under French command, or to combat units with very high attrition rates.

At the same time,he had to oversee the duty of both white and African-American soldiers as a military policeman. The French government awarded him the Chevelier du Legionne D'Honneur in 1998. He died in 2002 and is buried in Chenango Valley Cemetery.