Supporting Our Servicemen and Women

Our veterans have sacrificed so much to serve our nation. We must always remember that our freedoms have been fought for and defended by current and former members of the Armed Forces– many of whom made the ultimate sacrifice.

Earlier this year, I honored World War II veteran and Clarence resident, Harold J. Enstice, as a New York State Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame inductee. Enstice, as part of Operation Dragoon with the 142nd Infantry Regiment, invaded Southern France and liberated more than 20 cities and towns throughout the country, playing a major role in defeating the Nazi army and ultimately ending the war in Europe.

Harold’s company ran into the toughest kind of resistance during the war, but his platoon stuck it out and survived under his leadership. Harold is a member of America’s Greatest Generation, and it was such an honor to recognize his service to our country.

During this year’s legislative session, I worked to demonstrate my unwavering support for our heroic service men and women by helping to secure funding for the following important veterans’ initiatives:
• $3.1 million for the Joseph P. Dwyer Veteran Peer-to-Peer Program;
• $1 million in new funding for veteran-to-veteran programs run by Veterans Service Organizations;
• $500,000 for the NYS Defenders Association Veterans Defense Program;
• $200,000 for Warrior Salute;
• $100,000 for the Veterans Justice Project;
• $50,000 for the Vietnam Veterans of America New York State Council;
• $200,000 for Helmets-to-Hardhats;
• $25,000 for the Veterans Miracle Center; and 
• $120,000 for Veterans of Foreign Wars NYS Chapter Field Service Operations.

The Senate also took action on a number of measures to support veterans, including my legislation to help veterans afford a home. The legislation, Bill S5158, assists service-related disabled veterans in affording a home by giving those with a VA disability rating of 40 percent or higher a preference in applications to the state’s Affordable Home Ownership Development Program.

Our disabled veterans have given their health to defend our freedoms, and we owe them a debt of gratitude. While it can never truly be repaid, this legislation helps disabled veterans sustain a good quality of life by making it more affordable to own a home.

Bill S5540 directs the Commissioner of General Services to place a POW/MIA chair and plaque in the State Capitol to honor the more than 91,000 United States prisoners of war and those still missing in action. The Senate and Assembly approved the measure, and I voted in favor of the legislation. It is expected to be sent to the Governor for his consideration by the end of this year.

As your State Senator, I will continue to work to support our veterans. Our courageous veterans deserve the best, and all of these actions are one small way to repay our heroes and express our gratitude.