On May 21st Honor Our Troops and Veterans for Armed Forces Day

(Albany, NY) On the third Saturday of May each year the nation honors our bravest citizens, and Senator Neil D. Breslin (D-Delmar) is encouraging all New Yorkers to take a moment to give their appreciation and support to our troops, and the families that support them.

“The men and women of the military dedicate their lives to protecting our freedoms and way of life – it is our duty to give our support and appreciation,” Senator Breslin said. “Armed Forces Day provides us with the perfect opportunity to say thank you for all that they do.”

Armed Forces Day was created in 1949 to honor Americans serving in the five U.S. military branches – the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Coast Guard – following the consolidation of the military services in the Department of Defense. The first celebration included parades, open houses, receptions and air shows. In 1962, President John F. Kennedy established the day as an official American holiday and it has been celebrated annually ever since.

Last year, the Senate Democratic Conference showed strong support for veterans and soldiers by passing comprehensive legislation to extend benefits and protections. Included in the package were benefits to improve health and well being, educational opportunity, housing assistance, helping soldiers being deployed with matrimonial services, tax relief and voting protections.

“Myself and the Democratic Conference have been vocal, active supporters of our military personnel, and we will remain committed to supporting our troops. I urge all New Yorkers to do the same on not only this day, but throughout the entire year. Without these brave men and women we would not enjoy the freedoms of our great nation,” Senator Breslin concluded.

It is important to understand that you can help. There are organizations around the state that provide assistance to current soldiers, veterans and their families, including right here in [insert area and local veterans assistance organization].

Also, the Wounded Warrior Project helps the thousands of wounded warriors returning home from the current conflicts and to provide assistance to their families. Visit their website at www.woundedwarriorproject.org.

If you or a family member are a veteran, visit http://veteransupportcenter.org to get information on the assistance available.

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