After serving his country for 23 years in the Active-Duty Air National Guard, retired Staff Sergeant Nicholas Westcott is now serving veterans at Brookhaven Town Hall. As an employee of the Suffolk County Veterans Services Division, Westcott was appointed as the town’s Veterans Services Officer in April and brings with him a wealth of knowledge regarding the needs and concerns of Brookhaven veterans and their families. Westcott assists veterans with finding benefits they are entitled to, completing applications and obtaining referrals.
Westcott has been awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal (twice), Meritorious Unit Award, AF Outstanding Unit Award (eight times), Air Reserve Forces Meritorious Service Medal (three times), Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, and Global War on Terrorism Service Medal. While on an AGR tour, he achieved and completed his Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security from SUNY Empire State.
The Town of Brookhaven Division of Veterans Services works in a shared partnership with the Suffolk County Veterans Service Agency.
“It’s very common for veterans to not know their status or what benefits they may be entitled to,” Westcott said. “By making an appointment with me, I can assess their status and let veterans and their family members know what benefits they may be entitled to, including town, state and federal. Also, I talk to a lot of veterans who believe that if they apply for benefits, it takes away from other veterans who need the benefits more than they do. The truth is, it actually helps the veteran community by showing there is a need for these benefits.”
“I am grateful to Nick for his service to our country and proud that he is working with veterans at Town Hall to help them obtain the benefits they deserve,” said Town Supervisor Dan Panico. “The benefits they receive can be life-changing and I encourage Brookhaven residents to call our Veterans Services Division to make an appointment.”
Councilman Michael Loguercio, who serves as the Town Board Liaison to the Division of Veterans Services, said, “It’s gratifying to know Nick’s level of expertise is being put to excellent use here at Brookhaven Town Hall. He is continuing his dedication to our country by helping veterans and their families.”