VETERANS MUSEUM UNVEILED IN PUTNAM COUNTY FOLLOWING STATE GRANT SECURED BY ASSEMBLYMAN SLATER

The Putnam County Veterans Museum was unveiled this week, marking a major milestone in the County’s ongoing commitment to honoring and preserving the service and sacrifice of local veterans. The museum will be a permanent tribute to the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces.

The project was made possible in part through a $50,000 state grant secured by Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown), helping to bring the vision of a dedicated veterans’ museum to life.

“This museum ensures that the stories, sacrifices, and courage of Putnam County veterans are never forgotten,” Assemblyman Slater said. “I’m proud to have secured funding to support this important project, and even more proud to see it come to fruition through the dedication of so many local partners who worked together to honor our heroes.”

The museum represents a true collaborative effort across county government and community partners, including the Putnam County Historian’s Office, Veterans Service Agency, Department of Public Works, Parks Division, Planning Department, Joint Veterans Council and several other departments and organizations. Officials emphasized that the project reflects years of coordination and shared commitment to preserving local military history.

County leaders noted that the museum will serve as both an educational resource and a place of reflection, ensuring that future generations understand the contributions of Putnam County’s veterans and the impact of their service on the community and the nation.

“The opening of the new Veterans Museum at Veterans Memorial Park is another important step in preserving the stories and sacrifices of the men and women who have served our nation. This museum will provide residents, students, and visitors with a meaningful opportunity to connect with our local military history and honor the legacy of our veterans,” said Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne. “I want to thank Assemblyman Matt Slater for securing the funding that helped make this project possible, as well as our Veterans Service Agency, our County Historian’s office and everyone who worked to bring this vision to life. As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, there is no better time to invest in places that help tell the story of those who defended the freedoms we enjoy today.”

Putnam County Historian Jennifer Cassidy said, “The Putnam County Veterans Museum is more than a collection of artifacts; it is a place where the stories, experiences and sacrifices of our veterans can be preserved, shared and studied.  It is a work in progress and we start from here. Thanks to Assemblyman Slater, it is an exciting new chapter in Putnam County history.”

Tanya Pennella, Deputy Director of Putnam County Veterans Service Agency said, “On behalf of all Putnam County Veterans and beyond we are grateful to Assemblyman Matt Slater for the brand new Putnam County Veterans Museum.  Putnam County will now have the ability to continue to preserve the rich history of its Veterans past and present.”