ADDABBO AND QUEENS COUNTY COUNCIL VFW HONOR LOCAL WWII VETERAN

Rockaway Park (July 30, 2014) – Seventy-four years ago, Leonard Miller, a WWII veteran, constructed his very own flagpole to stand proudly outside his Rockaway Park home. However, when Superstorm Sandy came through, it destroyed the creation beyond repair.

Miller, 94, then put up an aluminum pole in its place, which was taken down by a storm this past March. His family out to State Senator Joseph Addabbo, Jr., who in turn contacted the Queens County Council’s Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), knowing they could help the WWII Navy vet.

“Leonard’s service, dedication and patriotism is something that deserves great respect, something to be recognized and celebrated,” said Addabbo, the ranking member of the Senate Committee on Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs. “After his efforts to maintain a display of his love for America were thwarted, I knew the VFW could help keep Leonard’s flag flying.”

Past Commander Marvin Jeffcoat, Commander Ryan Graham, Surgeon Kevin McCann and the VFW gifted Miller with and installed a new, sturdy flagpole and sponsored a dedication ceremony on Saturday, July 26 outside of Miller’s home.

“I thank these men, the VFW, all of the veterans and Veterans Service Organizations in Queens County for their commitment to improving the quality of life for the people who fought for our country,” said the Senator.

“It’s people helping people that keep our community strong. In this case, veterans helping fellow veteran is an unbelievable event to witness. To see the flag now fly atop its new flagpole is truly inspiring,” Addabbo continued. “Our city and our nation’s veterans are a one-of-a-kind group, and the flag is an everyday reminder of their service.”