Honoring Local Veterans

Smith-Weaver American Legion Post 651 Commander Gary Vertichio, Assemblyman-elect Al Graf (R – Holbrook), Legionnaires Gene Carlson, Joe Sam and Joe Aurelio all recently visited Veterans living at Good Samaritan Nursing Home and Petite Fleur Nursing Home. Thank You posters and cards donated by students of Academy Elementary School in Bayport were distributed to resident Veterans.

"It is important to take time this holiday season to thank those who have contributed to the freedoms that we enjoy today," said Graf. "I ask everyone in our community to please support your local Veterans organizations to help ensure that our vets, especially those in nursing homes, know that their service to this country has not been forgotten."

Commander Vertichio provided each Veteran with a service cap, a commemorative medal and a citation honoring their service. Outside each Veteran's room, a specially made "Veteran" sign was attached to the doorway. Vertichio thanked the Sayville community for the outstanding turnout at all of their . He expressed his excitement for his organization's increased involvement with the community, including the opening of a new facility that will house a local Veteran.

"The members of the Smith-Weaver American Legion Post 651 look forward to inviting the community to visit our newly-renovated Landmark Building as soon as all phases of construction are completed," said Vertichio. "We are looking forward to offering a worthy Veteran with an affordable apartment at the Post."

Nominations are currently being accepted for a local veteran to sign a lease on a second floor studio apartment. The Post is currently searching for donors to help complete the project, who will have a commemorative plaque attached to the elevator in their honor. Interested parties can contact Commander Vertichio at 563-2914.