Funke Nominates Laura Stradley for Senate Veterans Hall of Fame

Army veteran & local Veterans Service Agency Director inducted today in Albany

Senator Rich Funke today announced his nomination of Laura Stradley, a U.S. Army veteran and Director of the Monroe County Veterans Service Agency, for induction into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame. In recognition of her achievement, Stradley was celebrated alongside veterans from across New York at an induction ceremony this morning in Albany. 

“Leadership, service, and pride define our armed forces and they are certainly traits that describe U.S. Army veteran Laura Stradley,” said Funke. “Like so many veterans, Laura served our nation with honor and distinction before returning home to give back to our community with selfless dedication. I’m proud to have had the opportunity to make Laura my first nominee to the Senate Veterans Hall of Fame and I thank her for her service at home and abroad.”

Laura served honorably in the United States Army from 1996 through 2004, retiring at the rank of Staff Sergeant E-6. Since moving to Monroe County in 2008, Laura has sought-out opportunities to give back to the veterans community in many different capacities.  She previously served as Program Manager at the Veterans Outreach Center and is currently the Director of the Monroe County Veterans Service Agency and Military Coordinator at Bryant and Stratton College.  She sits on the Veterans Outreach Center Board, Monroe County Mental Hygiene Community Service Board, the Gold Star memorial planning committee, the Veterans Administration’s Consumer Mental Health Council, and holds three accreditations to file claims on behalf of veterans through the American Legion, Vietnam Veterans of America, and New York State Department of Veterans Affairs.  As a dedicated mother, Laura also makes time to remain active in her family life by volunteering as a Girl Scout troop leader and Little League baseball coach.

“There are a lot of people who work so hard every day serving the veterans in this community by giving back to other groups and organizations, so I'm really honored,” said Stradley.  “I like to do something that at the end of the day I feel good about.  When I go to sleep at night, I feel I have done something good for my community and for my fellow veterans.”

The New York State Senate Veteran’s Hall of Fame was created to honor and recognize outstanding veterans from the Empire State who have distinguished themselves both in military and civilian life.  The Veterans Hall of Fame is a yearly award program.  To nominate someone for the 2016 award, simply submit a 250 word or less biography of a nominee as well as a current address and contact information to Senator Funke’s District Office, 230 Packets Landing, Fairport, NY 14450.  Nominations for 2016 will be accepted until May 1, 2016.

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/ymoLsIcG-bg