Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, in partnership with her office’s veterans advisory council, NYC Department of Veterans’ Services, Worldwide Veterans and Family Services, and the Sam Young American Legion Post 620, hosted a Veterans Appreciation Month kick off event to honor and celebrate Bronx veterans from all five branches of the U.S. Armed Forces on Wednesday, Oct. 29.

 

As reported, the recognition in New York City of November as Veteran Appreciation Month began in 2023. Prior to that, just one day was marked to honor New York City’s veteran community.

 

Officials from the borough president’s office said the event, held at 1530 Hutchinson River Parkway in the Schuylerville section of The Bronx,  marked the official start of a month-long series of programs celebrating Veterans Appreciation Month, “honoring the courage, service, and sacrifice of those who have defended our nation.”

The ceremony featured a full program of acknowledgments and remarks from veteran community leaders and public officials, including the presentation of various proclamations. Commander Bobby Oviedo served as the program’s emcee, opening with the pledge of allegiance and a performance of the national anthem by Belinda Barnes.

 

Speakers included James Hendon, commissioner of NYC veterans services, who highlighted city initiatives supporting veterans and their families, and Juan Ernest Parra, chair of the veterans committee of Bronx Community Board 5 (CB5), who delivered the keynote address emphasizing leadership, resilience, and community impact.

Gibson also addressed attendees, highlighting the importance of advocacy, resources, and partnership efforts in supporting veterans and their families. During the event, seven honorees were recognized, including Ms. Donee’ Smalls of the U.S. Army; Raoul Anthony Laboy of the U.S. Air Force; Daniel Guzman of the U.S. Marine Corps; Tony Salimbene of the U.S. Coast Guard; Gene Anthony Edward of the U.S. Navy, Robert J. Treacy of the U.S. Navy and Juan Ernest Parra, chair of Bronx CB5’s veterans committee.

 

“The Bronx is home to many heroes who have proudly served our nation, and it is our duty to honor them and make sure their contributions are never forgotten,” Gibson said. “This month and every month, we recognize the courage, dedication, and leadership of our veterans and will continue to provide them with the support and resources they deserve.”

Hendon said the department was proud to stand with the borough president to honor what he said was a tradition of service that runs through every block of The Bronx. “As we mark Veterans and Military Families Month, we recommit to practical, life-improving work, one claim, one home, one career at a time.”

 

For his part, Oviedo said, “Veterans Appreciation Month is a way for us, as a community, to honor the men and women who served and are still serving our country. We will never forget the sacrifices they and their families make to keep us all safe. For God and Country.”

 

Officials at the borough president’s office said they will continue to connect veterans and their families to resources and opportunities throughout the borough. As reported, the Bronx Veterans Resource Center at Bronx Borough Hall is open every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., providing veterans and their families with access to a wide range of services.

For more information about the Veterans Resource Center, veterans are encouraged to contact NYC Department of Veterans’ Services at (212) 416-5250, email them at connect@veterans.nyc.gov, or make an appointment at nyc.gov/vetconnect.

 

Veterans Appreciation Month in New York City officially started Saturday, Nov. 1.

 

For some prior veteran-related coverage, click here,  here,  here, here, here, here.