FUNKE HOSTS TAKE A VETERAN TO SCHOOL DAY AT VICTOR HIGH

Senator Rich Funke hosted his first Take a Veteran to School Day with local military veterans and students at Victor High School. Take a Veteran to School is a nationwide partnership between the History Channel and cable providers, like Time Warner Cable, to strengthen ties between students and veterans, while bringing history to life in the classroom.


“As we approach Veterans Day, I can think of no better way to celebrate those who have selflessly served our nation than by giving these outstanding local veterans an opportunity to inspire a whole new generation of young people,” said Funke. “I want to thank our decorated panel of veterans, the students and staff at Victor Senior High School, Time Warner Cable, and the History Channel for making our first Take a Veteran to School Day a big success.”


In advance of the observance of Veterans Day next week, Funke hosted the event to recognize and celebrate the contributions made by all veterans, while simultaneously inspiring young people of all ages. Funke was joined by U.S. Army veteran Jeremy Bagley, U.S. Navy veteran Jeffrey S. Bartkoski, U.S. Air Force veteran Peter J. Glennon, U.S. Army veteran Laura Stradley, and U.S. Marine Corps veteran John White, in addition to Victor High School Principal Yvonne O'Shea. The program included opportunities for the attending veterans to share their experiences in their own words, in addition to a candid question and answer session between students and the panelists.


“I am honored to join Sen. Rich Funke at Victor High School for its Take a Veteran to School Day program,” said Glennon. “As Chairman of Honor Flight Rochester, I know how appreciative the greater-Victor community is of veterans. And I appreciate the opportunity to discuss my military and community service with the Victor students.”


"At Time Warner Cable, we are proud of our veterans and pleased to have an employee network comprised of veterans, family members of veterans and other supportive employees," said Mark Fitchett, Time Warner Cable AVP of Operations for Western New York. "Take a Veteran to School Day gives us all an opportunity to pause and reflect on the many contributions our veterans have made and to thank them for their selfless service."


Bagley is a United States Army Veteran who saw combat in Iraq, as well as other international deployments. He most recently served as Coordinator of Veteran Student Services and Director of the Office of Veterans Affairs at Nazareth College. He is currently Executive Director of the Greater Rochester Chapter of the American Red Cross. Jeremy’s Story - https://youtu.be/p3IDUz0n-h4


Bartkoski retired from the United States Navy at the rank of Captain after 30 years of active duty commissioned service. In his final Navy assignment, he served as the Commanding Officer of the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) Unit at the University of Rochester. He currently serves as President & CEO of Mercy Flight Central. Jeff’s Story - https://youtu.be/HuPXodixAbE


Glennon retired from the U.S. Air Force and New York Air National Guard. He served more than 24 years, including 10 years full-time. He is the recipient of many awards and commendations, including two Meritorious Service Medals and three Air Force Commendation Medals. He now practices law at The Glennon Law Firm, P.C. and serves as Chairman of Honor Flight Rochester. Peter’s Story - https://youtu.be/5S0VzHSZaN8


Stradley served in the United States Army from 1996 through 2004, departing with the rank of Staff Sergeant E-6. She currently serves as Director of the Monroe County Veterans Service Agency and previously served as Program Manager at the Veterans Outreach Center. She was Funke’s 2015 nominee to the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame. Laura’s Story - https://youtu.be/Sd0mhn8IvT0


White served as an Infantry Captain in the United States Marine Corps from 1966 to 1973, where he was stationed in Vietnam, Guantanamo Bay, Quantico, Camp Pendelton, and Camp Lejeune. For his actions in combat, he received the Silver Star Medal and a Purple Heart. He retired as Senior V.P. of Sales and Product Development for Priority Management Systems. John’s Story - https://youtu.be/-NYtU9qL2rw


For more information on the Take a Veteran to School program, please visit history.com/shows/mission-to-honor/articles/take-a-veteran-to-school.