A Special Salute to Those Who Served

Senator Ritchie’s Weekly Column 

It’s one of the most iconic images of World War II—a group of five United States Marines and a United States Navy corpsman, raising the  American flag atop Mount Suribachi on the Japanese island of Iwo Jima.  This month, dozens of United States veterans made the journey back to that same island, marking the 70^th anniversary of one of the most iconic battles of WWII.  These veterans represented the roughly 70,000 U.S. troops who took part in the 36 day battle, which is considered one of the bloodiest in history.

The stories of struggle and bravery during the Battle of Iwo Jima serve as examples of the selfless service exhibited by so many of our nation’s veterans.  In an effort to honor the service of these veterans—and so many more—I’m once again calling on people to nominate those who have served to the New York State Senate’s “Veterans Hall of Fame.” This special program aims to honor and recognize outstanding veterans from the Empire State who have distinguished themselves both in military and civilian life. Throughout the past several years, I’ve had the privilege of inducting dozens of men and women who have gone to amazing lengths to protect our freedom into the Hall of Fame.  What’s just as amazing, is the fact that after serving, so many of the honorees continue to give back—working each and every day to make a difference in our region. 

If you know a veteran who has gone above and beyond to serve their country and their community, I urge you to nominate them for this special honor.  Friends, family members, comrades-in-arms and community leaders residing in the 48^th Senate District—which includes Jefferson, Oswego and parts of St. Lawrence County—are invited to make nominations.  Veterans being nominated must reside within the 48^th Senate District.  To download a nomination form, please click here or call (315) 782-3418 to have a form mailed to to you.  All nominations must be received by April 10^th. 

The men and women who serve our country make tremendous sacrifices, including everything from spending long periods of time away from their loved ones to putting their lives on the line to protect our freedom.   I hope you’ll join me in honoring them for their service by taking the time to nominate a veteran for my Veterans Hall of Fame program.