Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces from across Suffolk County were honored for their service and sacrifice in helping to protect our freedom and liberty. Each of the 18 members of the Suffolk County Legislature introduced a veteran as “Veteran of the Year” from their district at the November 26 General Meeting of the Legislature in the Rose Caracappa Auditorium of the William H. Rogers Legislative Building.
Suffolk County is home to the largest population of veterans in New York State and has one of the largest veterans’ populations of any county in the United States.
“Today’s recognition of our veterans is the least we can do for their vital role in protecting our freedom and liberty,” said Presiding Officer Kevin J. McCaffrey. “My colleagues and I are proud to celebrate the inspiring commitment of these men and women who have significantly contributed to their communities and our Nation. By publicly commemorating their achievements, Suffolk County reaffirms its gratitude and respect for those who have served in the Armed Forces, ensuring that their stories and sacrifices remain a lasting part of our County’s and our Nation’s legacy.
“From my district, I am pleased to be able to honor Christopher M. Geackel of Lindenhurst, who retired from the US Air Force as a Master Sergeant in 2006 after 23 years of service. Among his awards, Chris received three Commendation Medals, five Air Force Achievement Medals, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, two Meritorious Service Medals; and was named the Community College of the Air Force Noncommissioned Officer and Athletic Warrior of the Year.”
“As a member of Wade-Burns VFW Post 7279 for 17 years, Chris has served as both Post Commander and Suffolk County Commander. He serves as coordinator of the Village of Lindenhurst Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies, and regularly visits the Long Island State Veterans Home and VA Hospital, to provide clothing, birthday cake, gifts, and vouchers to fellow veterans. He is a truly a shining example of selfless service,” said McCaffrey.
November is a somber and celebratory month for veterans, including as it does Veterans Day on November 11th – where ceremonies mark “the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month” in honor of the men and women who have served our nation – as well as the US Marine Corps birthday on November 10th.
The veterans who were honored by their legislators are listed here. The list includes their rank, branch in the military and place of residence:
- 1st Legislative District — Lance Corporal Michael Mundy, U.S. Marine Corps, Shelter Island
- 2nd Legislative District — Colonel Bob Grisnik, U.S. Air Force, Southampton
- 3rd Legislative District — Seaman Enrico ‘Rick’ Rossi, U.S. Navy, Shirley
- 4th Legislative District — Master Sergeant Frank Sanzone, U.S. Air Force, Selden
- 5th Legislative District — Corporal David Tracy, U.S. Marine Corps, Stony Brook
- 6th Legislative District — Platoon Sergeant and Platoon Leader Joe Cognitore, U.S. Army, Rocky Point
- 7th Legislative District — Airman First Class Walter Maresco, U.S. Air Force, Medford
- 8th Legislative District — Specialist 4 William Borthwick, U.S. Army, Oakdale
- 9th Legislative District — Sergeant Dr. Jaime Marcos, U.S. Marine Corps, Bay Shore
- 10th Legislative District — Specialist Fifth Class J. Hirsch, U.S. Army, Hauppauge
- 11th Legislative District — Specialist Fourth Class William F. Murray, U.S. Army, Bay Shore
- 12th Legislative District — Commander Grace Mehl, U.S. Navy, Smithtown
- 13th Legislative District — Senior Chief Petty Officer Marty Thompson, U.S. Navy, Saint James
- 14th Legislative District — Master Sergeant Christopher M. Geackel, U.S. Air Force, Lindenhurst
- 15th Legislative District — Corpsman Charles ‘Chuck’ Vinciulla, U.S. Navy, Amityville
- 16th Legislative District — Staff Sergeant Santiago Mejia, U.S. National Guard, Huntington Station
- 17th Legislative District — Sergeant Charlie Armstrong, U.S. Air Force, South Huntington
- 18th Legislative District — Sergeant Eugene Leavy, U.S. Army, East Northport