SLATER RECOGNIZES LOCAL VETERANS FOR THEIR SERVICE AND SACRIFICE AT ANNUAL HALL OF FAME EVENT

L-R: John Martinez (Putnam Valley), Nils Mockler, Donald King (Yorktown), Harry Sherblom (Southeast), James McCarthy (Patterson), Roland H. Ciofrone (Somers), Dennis J. Fernandez (Carmel), Assemblyman Matt Slater.

Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C–Yorktown) joined veterans, their families, community members and town supervisors for his annual Veterans Hall of Fame event on Saturday, Nov. 15. The ceremony recognized the accomplishments, bravery and dedication of the local men and women from each town within the 94th Assembly District and highlighted the diverse stories and service of these remarkable men and women who have served our nation.

This year’s honorees are: Fred Adams Jr. (Kent), Dennis J. Fernandez (Carmel), Harry Sherblom (Southeast), Donald King (Yorktown), Roland H. Ciofrone (Somers), John Martinez (Putnam Valley) and James McCarthy (Patterson).

“I’m proud to recognize our veterans who have given so much to this country, more than many will ever fully understand,” said Slater. “It’s a privilege to stand with them, listen to their stories and make sure their service is remembered in the communities they helped protect. I know I speak for all of us when I say how grateful we are to have them as part of our community.”

Kent Town Supervisor Jaime McGlasson said, “We are honored to recognize all of our veterans today but especially Kent’s own Fred Adams Jr. His service, sacrifice and continued commitment to our community make us incredibly proud. Thank you to Congressman Lawler and Assemblyman Slater for hosting the Veterans Hall of Fame and for ensuring heroes like Fred receive the recognition they truly deserve.”

Carmel Town Supervisor Mike Cazzari said, “From Vietnam to public service at home, Dennis J. Fernandez has devoted his life to protecting, guiding and uplifting others.”

Southeast Town Supervisor Nick Durante said, “As a man who’s never served, I do not understand what these men went through. What I do understand is these men are a special breed; it takes some kind of a soul to fight for freedoms for people they don’t know. God bless them and all they stand for.”

Yorktown Town Supervisor Ed Lachterman said, “Don’s work in chronicling his story in Korea, as well as with having the veterans of ‘The Forgotten War’ recognized in New York state, is so important to me as my dad was a Korean War veteran. I appreciate this history and the ongoing legacy of these soldiers being brought to life for us.”

Somers Town Supervisor Rob Scorrano said, “I wholeheartedly believe Retired Lance Corporal Roland H. Ciofrone of the U.S. Marines is the ideal recipient of this honor. A devoted family man always ready to help his neighbors, Roland has been instrumental in the creation of the Somers Veterans Memorial, bringing his expertise as a master electrician to craft its stunning lighting and flag displays with the precision and dedication of a true Marine. He is now leading the reopening of the Somers American Legion and driving initiatives that strengthen the camaraderie our town veterans deserve. Energetic, fun and inspiring, Roland enhances every event he touches, and we are truly grateful for his service on the Somers Veterans Committee.”

Putnam Valley Town Supervisor Jackie Annabi said, “It is an honor to take part in Assemblyman Slater’s annual Veterans Hall of Fame event, allowing us the chance to recognize our local heroes. On behalf of myself and the Town of Putnam Valley, we congratulate Master Sergeant John Martinez on this well-deserved honor and offer our deepest appreciation for his courage and service.”

Patterson Town Supervisor Richard Williams said, “I would again like to offer my congratulations to James McCarthy, who gives his time selflessly to our community, and to all the recipients of this year’s Veterans Hall of Fame.”