Assemblyman McDonough honors veterans

New York State Assemblyman David McDonough honored combat veterans for distinguished service in a quiet ceremony at the Merrick Library on July 16. They received the state Medal of Merit, state Conspicuous Service Star Medal, the Service Cross Medal or the Conspicuous Service Cross Medal.

The 17 honorees included residents of Baldwin, Merrick, Bellmore, Wantagh, Seaford and Levittown, and spanned the generations, from World War II to Iraq War veterans.

McDonough, a North Merrick resident who served in the Coast Guard and the Air Force, said, "We honor your life experiences…and the sacrifices you were willing to make," adding, "We are proud of you."

Sen. Charles Fuschillo Jr., of Merrick, said the honors are "long overdue."

"When I see all of you receiving your medals and your just due, you are what’s right with our country," the senator said.

Two veterans –– Roy Bronnekant and George Brooks –– received their high school diplomas at the ceremony beccause they were unable to complete them when they were called to war.

The Honorees...

Kenneth Anderson –– Medal of Merit

Lionel Bauman –– Medal of Merit, Conspicuous Service Star Cross

Roy Bronnekant –– Medal of Merit, High School Diploma

George Brooks –– High School Diploma

Richard Buseck –– Medal of Merit

John Clarke –– Medal of Merit

Richard DeLucia –– Medal of Merit, Conspicuous Service Star Medal

Peter Galante –– Medal of Merit

Alfred Garbarino –– Service Cross Medal

Harold Heitner –– Medal of Merit

Peter Kuchar –– Medal of Merit, Conspicuous Service Star Medal

Peter Plaia –– Conspicuous Service Cross Medal

Frank Priebe –– Medal of Merit

Henry Sendlein –– Conspicuous Service Cross Medal

George Sorkin –– Medal of Merit

William Starke –– Medal of Merit

John Waluk –– Medal of Merit, Conspicuous Service Star Medal

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