Apply to be a Sponsor

Please consider supporting the 2025 Hometown Heroes Banner Program. This program honors those who have served our country, and you can show your support by sponsoring a banner. Individuals, families, businesses, and organizations are all welcome to sponsor a banner at a cost of $150.

The deadline for 2026 applications is March 27, 2026. You can download the Hometown Heroes Banner Sponsorship Form to apply.

Sponsoring a hometown hero is a rewarding way to give back to those who have sacrificed for our country. Each year, a special ceremony is held to recognize these heroes and share their stories.

Donations made in support of the program are greatly appreciated. Donation money provides the Park's and Recreation Department the opportunity to recognize service member's who may not have a banner sponsor.   

Thank you for considering your support to this wonderful program.

This picture was photographed in July 1945 and was taken in Boise, Idaho during training. This photo is in our archives, and we are looking for an owner or anyone who can share information with us about the photo.   

2025 Honorees 

TEC4 Charles A Ballschmieder 

Charles A. Ballschmieder was born in Buffalo, New York.  Charles was a telephone and telegraph repairman (Technician) in the Army Signal Corps from 1942 to 1946. Charles served in the Army during World War II in Europe, where he met and later married his wife Gisele, a native Parisian. They eventually raised their family of eight children in Guilderland. He was employed by N.Y. Telephone Company for 41 years. He was a life member of the Boyd Hilton VFW 7062 in Altamont.

AFSC Ronald ND Brittell

AFSC Ronald ND Brittell was born in Albany, NY in 1938. He enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1958 and was in basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. After basic training, Ronald went to Technical School at Francis E. Warren Air Force Base in Chyenne, Wyoming. Graduating at the top of his class with an AFSC as a plumber, allowed Robert to have first choice as to where he would be assigned to next.

Robert chose to serve with the 1604th Installation Squadron in Kindley, Bermuda. In June 1960, Robert was reassigned to the 763rd Radar Recovery Squadron (ADC), Lockport Air Force Station in New York. He was honorably discharged in February 1962. 

Robert met and married Nancy Lee Lang and raised his family in Guilderland Center.

A1C James P Caruso

Airman 1st Class James P Caruso served proudly in the United States Air Force during the Korean War as a Training Instructor, better known as a Drill Sergeant.

He was especially proud of his job taking young civilian men and crafting them into a tough patriotic team, ready to serve, and if necessary, die for their country.  He served as an Airman First Class from January 1955 to September 1958.

EM3 Frederick R Deichman III

Frederick R Deichman III served in the United States Navy. During his tenure he received the following awards; National Defense Service Medal and Vietnam Service Medal with one bronze star. 

As a lifelong resident of the Town of Guilderland, Frederick served as a member of the McKnownville Fire Department for over 60 years.

CPO Albert J Dwyer

Chief Petty Officer (CPO) Albert Dwyer was born in 1922. Albert served in the Navy between 1941 and 1947 during World War II. He lived in Guilderland from 1948 to 2023. He passed away in 2023. Albert retired from Price Chopper in 1983. Albert raised three children with his wife Virginia, and he lived in Guilderland for 75 years. He was a member of the Helderberg Bassmasters Club and the Turnpike Rod & Gun Club.

Capt. Douglas Fassbender

Capt. Douglas Fassbender served on active duty in the Marines as a Communications Specialist from 1975 to 1980 at Okinawa, Japan and Camp Lejune, North Carolina. Then he joined the Air Force as an Electronic Warfare Technician from 1981 to 1985, stationed at Homestead Air Base in Florida.

In 1987, he served in the Army as a Military Police Officer at Fischbach Army Depot, Germany and at Fort Ord, California. Douglas served as Provost Marshal at Watervliet Arsenal, New York. He retired from active duty on December 31, 1998.  

SP5 F.C. Chris Ford

Chris Ford grew up in Guilderland Center and was a graduate of Guilderland High School. He attended Parks Air College, now part of St. Louis University, earning a BS in Aeronautics in 1967. He was drafted and inducted in the US Army in 1968. Furthermore, he was trained as a tactical Circuit Controller and sent to Vietnam. Chris was stationed at Lang Bien Mountain in Dalat from August 1968 to August 1969. He was honorably discharged in August 1969 in Ft. Lewis, Washington with a rank of Specialist 5.

His awards include a National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, RVN Service Campaign Ribbon, Vietnam Service Ribbon, Expert Marksman (M-14, M-16) and Bronze Star. After his military service Chris returned to the Midwest where he worked, married and raised his family.

EN 2nd Class Thomas Glenn

Engineman 2nd Class Thomas Glenn served in the United States Navy from 1952-1956.  Thomas has been a member of the McKnownville Fire Department for over 50 years.

Sgt Amanda Matteson

Sergeant Amanda Matteson served in the New York National Guard from 2005-2011. Amanda was deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2008-2009. As a helicopter mechanic she maintained UH-60 Black Hawks during drill weekends, as well as, daily for several months leading up to and throughout her deployment in Iraq.

Sgt. Matteson won the Soldier of the Year award for New York State in 2008. After her service, she earned a Masters and Doctorate in Social Work, and works in research at the War-Related Illness and Injury Study Center, which is part of the Veteran's Health Administration. 

Medals and Awards Amanda received during her service; National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with M Device and Basic Aviation Badge.

Pvt Joseph Mazzone Jr.

Joseph Mazzone Jr. served as a Private in the infantry of the United States Army Reserves from 1968 to 1974. He was honorably discharged in 1974.

SP4 Allen B McLean

Allen served in the United States Army and has served in the McKnownville Fire Department since 1979.

Pfc Charles Miltner

Pfc. Charles R. Miltner was born in Jacksonville, Florida. Charles is the son of the late Martin and Edna Miltner and was married to his wife Eleanor for 60 years before her passing. Charles was a World War II Army veteran and a Purple Heart recipient. Charles entered the Army in May 1944 and was seriously wounded in action in Germany on New Year's Day. 

Charles worked for the Public Service Commission as a bus inspector, retiring in 1975. He also was a former member of the Fort Hunter Volunteer Fire Department.    

SSG Robert F Monaghan

Staff Sergeant Robert F Monaghan served in the United States Army and Army Reserves.

Pvt Eugene J Napierski

Eugene Napierski was born in 1909. He served his country from January 1944 through February 1946. He served at Fort Dix, New Jersey. He drove a 2 1/2 ton truck, hauled supplies and equipment, and made minor repairs. He also drove a semi-trailer truck hauling a searchlight unit. At the time of his service, he was married to Elizabeth Doran Napierski and had two small children. After his honorable discharge, he and Liz had two more children.

During his civilian life, Eugene was a truck driver for the National Biscuit Company and became a leader in the Teamsters Union. Eugene passed away in 1983.  Eugene's family, including his numerous grandchildren, are very proud of his military service.  

SP4 Robert E Purzycki

Robert Purzycki served in the United States Army between 1969-1975. Robert earned many awards during his service; National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Ribbon w/60 Device, Two Overseas Bars, Marksman Badge M-14 Rifle, Expert Badge M-16 Rifle, Cambodia Purple Heart Recipient.

SSG Ilan Valentino Rafeel

Staff Sergeant (SSG) Ilan Valentino Rafeel has proudly served over 11 years in the United States Army, beginning his military journey in Brooklyn, New York. After enlisting, he completed Basic Combat Training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and went on to earn his Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) as a 68W Combat Medic at Fort Sam Houston, Texas.

SSG Rafeel's first assignment took him to Fort Campbell, Kentucky, where he joined the prestigious 101st Airborne Division. During his deployment to Afghanistan in 2015 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF), he earned his Air Assault wings and the Expert Field Medical Badge. His service in Afghanistan sharpened his trauma care skills in high-pressure, combat conditions, making him a valuable asset to his unit. 

Following his deployment, SSG Rafeel was stationed at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, with the 25th Infantry Division. There, he advanced as both a leader and a medical professional, earning certifications in Basic Combatives Levels 1 and 2, and later completing the Combatives Master Trainer Course. This course equipped him with the skills to teach and train others in individual combat techniques, mental toughness, and controlled aggression. 

Next, SSG Rafeel returned to his home state of New York, joining the 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum. He served as a Small Group Leader at the Noncommissioned Officer Academy (NCOA), mentoring future leaders and preparing soldiers for promotion. In recognition of his instructional expertise, he earned the Basic Army Instructor Badge, further solidifying his reputation as a dedicated leader. 

SSG Rafeel's military medical expertise led to an assignment at the Defense Medical Readiness Training Institute, where he worked alongside tri-service personnel to teach emergency trauma care to military healthcare providers. His leadership in this role extended to becoming a coordinator and affiliate faculty member for the NAEMT Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) and Prehospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS) programs. He also earned certification in the Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC). 

Throughout his career, SSG Rafeel prioritized education and earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Texas at Arlington. After transitioning to civilian life, he returned to New York and currently serves as an emergency room nurse with Saint Peter's Health Partners. 

After 11 years of active duty service, SSG Rafeel now serves as a reservist in upstate New York, continuing his commitment to both the military and the healthcare community. His service reflects an unwavering dedication to his country and the well-being of others. 

SSG Rafeel's distinguished career as a soldier, leader, and healthcare professional is a testament to his excellence and commitment. His legacy of service continues to inspire those around him.

Sgt Andrew Semp

Sgt. Andrew Semp (Andy) grew up in Guilderland and graduated from Guilderland High School. After working locally for a few years, Andy enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, and was called to active duty service in January 2005. After finishing Boot Camp at Parris Island and Advanced School, Andy was assigned and trained as a 1371 MOS - Combat Engineer.

Assigned to the 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, Andy was assigned to his duty station at Camp Pendleton, California. From there, Andy participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom for 3 tours; two tours in Iraq, and the third tour as part of the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit in the Pacific and Middle East. 

For his service to our country, Sgt. Andrew Semp earned and was awarded the following;  Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal w/1 star Marine Good Conduct Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon w/3 stars, Humanitarian Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Navy Unit Commendation, 2 Letters of Appreciation, Certificate of Commendation and Rifle Expert Badge (2nd Award).    

 After serving 4 1⁄2 years, Andy ended his active duty service with the Marine Corps in June 2009, and returned to the area where he worked a number of years for CSX and earned his Bachelor's Degree.

Sgt James Sidoti

James Sidoti served as a Sergeant in the 216th medical battalion, the 16th armored division under General Patton.

Sgt George Allen Taylor

Sergeant George Allen Taylor served in the United States Army from November 1942 - November 1945. George was an AP Electrical Mechanic 685.

George received the following medals while in service; Good Conduct Medal, American Campaign Medal, Worled War II Victory Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with 1 Silver and 1 Bronze, Battle Stars, Distinguished Unit Badge, 2 Overseas Service Bars.

Pvt Luther C Warner

Luther Warner spent nearly two years in France as an ambulance driver in the American Field service for the United States Army, under the supervision of the French Government. Luther served his time in the military from August 1917 to April 1919. He was severely wounded in action in July of 1918 during the Second Battle of the Marne.

Luther was awarded the French Croix de Guerre.

Luther was a resident of East Berne and attended Altamont High School. At the time of being enlisted, Luther was a student at Cornell University.

2LT Harold E Whitney

Harold Whitney served in the United States Army Air Corps and was a 2nd Lieutenant. He was honorably discharged.

SGT Guy Comparetta

Guy joined the NY Army National Guard 27^th Armored Division as a Private in 1964 and earned the rank of Sergeant prior to his honorable discharge in 1970. 

In 1979 he reenlisted in the NY Air National Guard as a Sergeant and served as a firefighter at the Stratton Air Guard base in Glenville.

Guy started his fire department service at the age of 18 when he joined West Albany Fire Department (1962-1968 Town of Colonie), Westmere Fire Department (1968-1976) and currently at Fort Hunter Vol. Fire Co. (1976-Present) where he served the rank of Chief.

SSG Gilbert De Lucia

Gilbert J. De Lucia was born in Greenwich, NY, and graduated from Greenwich High School.  He moved to Mechanicville with his mother and siblings after his father’s passing. He began his first semester at Union College and was drafted into the Army where he served from 1944-1946.

In 1947, he returned to Union College and graduated in 1950. In 1951, he married his beloved Anna Pignateli. In 1953, Gil graduated from Albany College of Pharmacy.  

Gil and Anna came to Altamont to take over the century-old Altamont Pharmacy. Gil was the 5th and final pharmacist in the Village of Altamont.  He served the Village with dedication and integrity for 38 years. He remained a village resident until he passed away in 2008.

SSG Nicholas Deso

Biography is not available

CPL Andrew Durand

Andrew Durand enlisted in the US Marine Corps on 26 March 2012, and was trained as an Aircraft Firefighter/Rescue Specialist. He deployed overseas to Kuwait and Iraq for 7 months as part of Operation Inherent Resolve and was later honorably discharged on 25 March 2016 at the rank of Corporal.

Andrew was awarded the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal (Kuwait), Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, SEA Service Deployment Ribbon and Sharpshooter Rifle Qualification Badge.

Born in Rostov-On-Don, Russia, Andrew was a graduate of Guilderland High School and Hudson Valley Community College with a Paramedic Degree. He had been working on a degree in nursing at Maria College. A natural caregiver, he was employed as a paramedic with Mohawk Ambulance. Andrew was a talented musician and composer. He loved reading, sports, nature and spending time with family and friends.

Andrew passed away on August 31, 2022 at the age of 30. He was the devoted son of Anna Durand and the late Thomas J. Durand of Guilderland. He is the dear brother of Thomas V. Durand and is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, and close friends.

PFC Robert Freeman

Biography is not available

SGT Harold Grant

Harold enlisted in the Army Air Force in 1944 until 1946. He gained the rank of Sergeant in the 507th Bomb squardron. Hal left school at the age 17 to enlist and completed his education at a later date. He was a mechanic on B-29 bombers finishing his service at return from Oikinawa Island in the South Pacific.

Hal Grant received a medal of servide for Asiatic Pacific Campaign and Army Occupation Medal.

CPL Nathaniel Hinz

Biography is not available

SGT Glenn Leininger

Glenn R Leininger (1915 - 1981) was born in Rockland, Ohio. Soon thereafter his parents moved the family to Guilderland, New York; where they bought and ran the Hungerford Dairy farm on Doctor Shaw Road. In 1928, Glenn's father died and his mother took some of the family back to Ohio. Glenn graduated from Rockland High School in 1933. Subsequently, he and his mother moved back to Guilderland where his brother Carl owned the Leininger Cider Mill on Carman Road.

Shortly after the US entered into Worl War II, Glenn married Grace Merrihew. Then he enlisted into the Army. After basic training he was attached to an engineering company as a supply Sergeant. His company was sent to England, then onto Europe. The companies main objective was to install bailey bridges, then to occupy Germany. When V-J Day occurred the company was ordered home. 

Once back in Guilderland, Glenn resumed working for the A&P company where he became a Manager of their Altamont store. Simultaneously he and Grace built their home on Old State Road, then in 1954, they designed and built a larger home on Hite Court where they raised their seven children. Glenn lived there until his death. 

FN Martin Muller

Martin was born in 1938 near Belgrade, Serbia. Fleeing the conflict at the end of World War II, he and his mother and older sister moved first to Germany and eventually came to New York City in 1950.

Martin joined the Navy in 1956 and served on the experimental destroyer USS Witek, (DD/EDD - 848), for four years. His friends in the service helped him get his GED, and he learned to be an electrician. He was the ships projectionist, showing movies each night and he enjoyed his time in the service. Martin earned the rank of Fireman E-3 before his honorable discharge in 1960.

After his service he held many jobs in NYC until settling in as an elevator mechanic in the Manhattan Criminal Courts building. Martin and his wife Linda moved to Guilderland in 2016 to be near their grandchildren.

HSD3 Cory Nichols

Biography is not available

TEC 5 Edison Nunez

Edison J. Nunez, Jr. entered military service in 1943 with the US Army Air Corp in the Specialist Training Program. When that program was down sized he was assigned to the 724th Field Artillery Battalion of the 69th Infantry Division, based at Camp Shelby, Mississippi, and trained as a radio operator for the HQ Battery.

His unit participated in the Rhineland Offensive, aimed at occupying the Rhineland and securing a passage over the Rhine river. His unit also participated in the Central Europe campaign until the end of the war in Europe in May 1945.

His decorations and citations include the American Theater of Operations Medal, European–African–Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and World War II Victory Medal.

Edison would speak often of those back home who supported his service and the service of so many others in those difficult times. Especially, he would say, his wife, mother, sister, and, dad, who served in Europe in World War I. 

After returning to the US in 1946 and honorable discharge from service, Edison began a career with the US Government that spanned 35 years.  He and wife Louise and family settled in Guilderland, NY in 1972, where he lived until passing in 2021.

MSTC Patrick O'Hare

Biography is not available

LT James Reinhold

Biography is not available

HM2 William Simmons

Currently 93 yrs. old. He served during the Korean War as a Medical Corpsman aboard the USS Tarawa as it traveled the globe.

ME2 Jack Tashjian

PO2 Petty Officer 2011-2019. Maritime Enforcement 2nd class.

1st SG Philip (Jay) Tyler

My journey began with a dedicated career in 1985 when I joined the active duty Air Force, where I started as an aircraft armament specialist. Driven by a passion for helping others, I retrained as an aeromedical evacuation specialist, a role that allowed me to contribute directly to the care and transport of sick and injured personnel.

In 1989 I transferred to the New York Air National Guard, where I served during Operation Desert Storm in both the United Kingdom and Et Taif, Saudi Arabia. My service continued during Operation Restore Hope in Mogadishu, Somalia, where I conducted aeromedical evacuation missions throughout Somalia, as well as into Mombasa, Kenya, and Cairo, Egypt. Rising to the position of Squadron First Sergeant in 1998 at the 139th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron was a proud moment for me, reflecting my commitment to leadership and excellence.

My military service has allowed me to transition my knowledge and skills to the civilian sector, starting as a paramedic for the Town of Guilderland in 2003. My dedication and experience helped me rise through the ranks to become the Town's EMS Director. In this role, I ensure the health and safety of our community, continuing the same commitment to service that defined my military career.

My journey from military service to civilian leadership has been driven by a lifelong commitment to serving others, both in times of conflict and in everyday community life.

Capt. John (Jack) Walters

Capt. John (Jack) Walters…..USAF 1967-1971.He served as Asst Director of Pharmacy at Wilford AF Hospital in San Antonio… and then was Director of Pharmacy at Maxwell AF Hospital in Montgomery Alabama. Born in 1943, he died in 2020.

James Gaige

1972-1974 Army 3rd Class.  1990-2011 Navy Seabee 2nd Class. 

Sgt Austin Hutton

Guilderland resident Austin Hutton was born November 2, 1918. At the time Woodrow Wilson was president and the Spanish Flu pandemic was beginning to wane. World war I was ending in Europe.

Austin was born at Ellis Hospital in Schenectady NY and attended Schenectady City Schools.  Austin loved playing sports, especially baseball, basketball, track and field. Later in life he became an avid golfer and a long-term member of Western Turnpike Golf Course where he was acknowledged with awards for his abilities.

In his lifetime, Austin bared witness to enough significant events, discoveries, inventions and innovations to fill volumes. He saw humanity at its very best, as well as, its very worst. Four months after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, Austin enlisted in the United States Army in 1942. Austin was 23 years f age at the time of enlistment. After completing basic training Austin was assigned to the 92nd Machine Records Unit in Fort Knox, Kentucky. His work experience as a Tubulating Machine Operator at IBM became an asset to him for his role in the war.  A short tome after the D-Day invasion in Normandy France, Austin  stepped ashore at Utah Beach. His ultimate objective was Paris, where he was assigned to the 37th Central Machine Records Unit (mobile) as a supervisor. He performed administrative duties which included switch board operating and maintaining records. Like all soldiers at the time, he also did his share of guard duty.  

Austin witnessed the end of the war in Europe with the signing of the German's surrender in Reims France. Austin spoke about his memories in France hoping to return to Paris one day. 

Austin was honorably discharged from the Army in 1946 as a Technician Fourth Grade Sergeant; a rank of the United States Army between 1942-1948. The rank recognized enlisted soldiers with special technical skills. His citations included American Service Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal and WWII Victory Medal. 

Austin returned home where he met and married Dorothy Gardner in 1949. They built their house in Guilderland and raised five children. Austin worked for many years at the General Electric Company in Schenectady NY, in the Large Steam Turbine Generator Department. Austin retired in 1983.

Austin enjoyed golfing, taking care of his lawn and gardens, and taking vacations in Cape Cod, Lake George and Florida. A favorite pastime was attending grandchildren's sports events and watching over them as they grew into adults. He was an avid watcher of old movies, recalling and naming the actors. Guilderland remained the place Austin called home. He always greeted his encounters with a smile and a strong handshake speaking his unforgettable line "1918!".

PFC Rocco Martelli

Rocco was in the Army in the Coastal Artillery Brigade stationed in Hawaii from 1934-1941 (approximate dates). He was also in Japan. He was a First Class Radio Buzzer Operator, Telegraph Sounder, and Expert Gunner. Rocco and his troop were visited y Shirley Temple and her mother during his service. After being honorably discharged from the Army, Rocco enjoyed spending time raising his young daughter with his wife Mildred. Later in life, Rocco and his wife Mildred moved to Altamont to be with her only child, Roc'sanna Rivers. They both spent their golden years on the beloved Rivers farm on Depot Road.

E5 Robert Pagnotti

United States Army 1969-1975. Rank E5, Artillery Gunner. 

MM1 James Palumbo

James was born in Ballston Spa, NY and graduated from Ballston Spa High School in 1981. James served in the United States Navy from 1983 to 1991. During that time James served aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt and the USS Abraham Lincoln. 

PFC Donald Provost

PFC Donald Provost enlisted in the United States Army at the age of 21. Donald served in the Army from 1951-1953 and in the Army Reserves from 1953-1957 until he was honorably discharged. Donald was stationed in Germany and then went to Korea for the Korean conflict. Donald was proud to be a demolition expert in the Army Corps of Engineers where he was able to remove evidence of Nazi occupied Germany.

Donald purchased a home in the town of Guilderland where he raised his family. Donald and his wife Patricia raised three children and enjoyed visits from family and friends; especially visits from grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Donald was a proud member of his community and had worked as an Operator for the Guilderland Highway Department until his retirement.   

SSgt Robert Stealey

Robert (Bob) joined the tip of the spear on his 18th birthday by walking into a US Marine Corps recruiting office and enlisting. the year was 1968. To say that Bob was proud of his service is the biggest understatement ever uttered by man. He was a US Marine to his bones. Bob embodied the motto "Semper Fidelis" for all the years following his formal service with the Marine Corps. 

Never without his marine corps apparel, marching along with his brothers in arms at every parade, organizing annual fund raising golf tournaments to benefit Marine Corps League and standing tall every holiday season collecting Toys for Tots. His fellow Marines recognized his service and devotion when they bestowed upon him the great honor of naming him Commandant of the Marine Corps League. If you knew Bob, you understood the source of his endless pride for the Corps and his fellow servicemen; he never knew a stranger, but he would cross a room to shake hands with a fellow Marine. 

Staff Sergeant Robert Stealey completed his formal service and transferred to the Marine Corps Reserve in February of 1971. Bob completed training in Marine Corps Service Support Schools, Motor Vehicle Operators course and earned his Military Motor Vehicle Operators Permit (up to 5 ton). Robert earned a National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal w/1* and a Rifle Marksman badge. 

The best decision Bob ever made was when he married his bride Sandra of 53 years. Against the strongest headwinds they raised five loyal and dutiful children. 

BU2 Edward Weston

Navy Seabee 1968-1971. Builder 2nd Class.

Sgt Ellsworth Guy Bucey

Biography is not available

HM PO Charles J Ciaccio

Biography is not available

SSG Horace McDonnell

Biography is not available

Spec John McDonnell

Biography is not available

Spec Joseph McDonnell

Biography is not available

CPL Michael McDonnell

Biography is not available

Spec Nicholas McDonnell

Biography is not available

SGT Timothy McDonnell

Biography is not available

2LT Edward C Valachovic

Biography is not available

The following is a listing of our 2021 service member honorees.  Unfortunately we do not have a photo to share of each of our service members at this time. 

FC Porter E Bidleman

US Navy Seaman, First Class Gunnersmate. Served on LCI/1077. Dates of service 1944-1946. Assigned to Asia Pacific Theater and was present during the assault and occupation of Iwo Jima and Okinawa.

LTC Todd J Clark

LTC Todd J. Clark, Cavalry, US Army, 40, was killed Saturday, June 8, 2013, in Afghanistan in a Green on Blue attack. 

Born in Albany, son of Colonel RJ "Jack" Clark, US Army (Retired), and Kathleen Murphy Clark, brother of Kyle E. Clark. Husband of Shelley Wuenstel Clark and devoted father of Collin Thomas and Madison Elaine Clark. 

A Guilderland, NY resident and 1990 Christian Brothers Academy graduate; a graduate of Texas A&M University (BS), Commissioned as an Armor/Cavalry Officer, graduate of the US Army Armor Basic and Advanced Officer Courses, Naval Postgraduate School (Master's Degree), and Command and General Staff College (Master's Degree). He served in Kuwait and Bosnia with the 1st Cavalry Division with 2/12/CAV. As Troop Commander, CPT Clark led Lightning Troop, 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment in the attack on Iraq, for his first combat tour. CPT Clark was an 

Advisor to the Iraqi Special Police Commando for his second combat tour. In his third tour, CPT Clark was on Brigade Staff of the 10th Division (Mountain) in Iraq. MAJ Clark then served as the S3 with 1/71 Cavalry Squadron of the 10th Division (Mountain} in Afghanistan, for his fourth combat tour. It was during this tour that he sustained IED injuries and spent 8 months recuperating at Walter Reed Military Hospital, receiving his first Purple Heart. Todd then served as an XO with 1/89 Cavalry Squadron of the 10th Division (Mountain) at Fort Drum, and upon promotion to LTC as a Senior Advisor to the Afghan National Army for his fifth and last combat tour. Interment is in Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, San Antonio, Texas. His awards are as follows: 

Bronze Star Medal, 4, Posthumous; Purple Heart, 2, Posthumous; Meritorious Service Medal, 3, Posthumous; Army Commendation w/combat distinguishing device "V"; Army Commendation Medal, 4; Army Achievement Medal, 3; Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal; 

National Defense Service Medal w/Bronze Service Star; Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal; 

Kosovo Campaign Medal With Bronze Service Star; Afghanistan Campaign Medal w/Bronze 

Service Star, 2; Iraq Campaign Medal w/Bronze Service Star, 4; Global War on Terrorism 

Expeditionary Medal; Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; Korean Defense Service Medal; Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon, 3; NATO Medal Kosovo; NATO Medal; Combat Action Badge; Parachutist Badge, Basic; Presidential Unit Citation (Army & Air Force), 2; Joint Meritorious Unit Award; Meritorious Unit Commendation (Army); Overseas Service Bar, S. 

Matthew Daigler

Biography is not available.

Adrienne Daniels

Biography is not available.

GM3 John C Meyers

John C. Meyers Sr. was born in Philadelphia PA. John enlisted in the US Navy at the age of 17 and served on the USS Waldron DD699 during WW II in the Pacific Theatre as a Gunners mate 3rd class. 

After an honorable discharge, he soon met and married Theresa Moore of Philadelphia and raised a beautiful family in Runnemede, NJ. He was employed by Bond Bread Baking Company for over 20 years, and a promotion with the company moved him and his family to the Albany, NY area, where he eventually retired as a district sales manager. 

Being young and still not ready to leave the work force, he bought an Arnold Bread Franchise and worked that for about 12 years. He then dabbled in various small adventures before becoming a locksmith, which he mastered and enjoyed until he was 80. His civic and recreational activities included, the Runnemede Fire Department, where he was a lifetime member, he also served as President for 2 years. During his tenure, he was responsible for the foundation of the Junior Fire Fighters, and was instrumental in building the new and much needed fire station. 

After moving to NY, he became a member of the Pine Grove Fire Department in Rotterdam, NY. His most recent activities included being President of the Inverness Lions Club. He was also past president of the Beverly Hills Lions Club. He was a member of the Elks 2480 of Guilderland, NY, the Inverness Elks 2522, the American Legion Post 155 and the VFW Post 100087. He was past president of the Beverly Hills Shuffle Board Club, and Past Vice President of the Beverly Hills Fishing Club. After the Death of his wife, Theresa of 38 years, he later married Cecile Giroux of Altamont, NY. A few years later, in 1993, they relocated to Beverly Hills, FL where he started a new locksmith business. He became a well-loved member of the community and his business flourished. He enjoyed fishing, watching his favorite baseball team THE RAYS and traveling in his RV with Ceil and Daisy his Dalmatian.

John received the following medals for his military achievements: Pacific Theater Ribbon (4 Stars), American Theater Ribbon, Victory Medal, and the Philippine Liberation Ribbon (1 Star).

Pvt Newton T Ronan

Newton served in the US Army Aircorps between 1943-1945. Newton had finished high school to enlist to serve his country.

Sylvester Schiltz

Biography is not available.

Capt Carl J Walters

Captain Carl J Walters served in the United States Army Airforce between 1942-1946. Carl was a test pilot and a bomber pilot in World War II. Carl was the very first to fly the B29 with jet assist. Captain Walters flew bombers in the Japanese air offensive and was awarded the Bronze Star, the Victory Medal and the American Theater Emblem. 

PFC Dayton B Brown

Biography is not available.

Lt  Col John J Cipriano Jr

John served and retired in the Army. He was granted several awards and medals during his service in the military.

Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal (4th Award), Army Commendation Medal (3rd Award), Army Achievement Medal (2nd Award), National Defense Service Medal (2nd Award), Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon (3rd Award), Parachutist Badge.  

1st Lt Lyn M Cipriano

Served as a 1st Lieutenant in the United States Army Reserve. Lyn received the Army Service Ribbon and Parachute Badge during her service in the US military.

PFC Austin J Grant

Private Lance Corporal Grant served in the United States Marine Corp.

SFC Robert R Lynch

Robert Lynch served in the US Army and received the following medals during his service in the military. National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, 1 Overseas Service Bar, Vietnam Campaign Medal.  

E3 Terry A Miltner

Terry served in the Army and received the following medals during his service in the miliary: National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal w/1 Bronze Service Star, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Sharpshooter Rifle

SFC Wesley F Smith

Wesley served in the United States Navy and received the following medals during his service in the Military: National Defense Medal, Vietnam Service Medal.

T. Sgt Eugene L Spinnler

Technical Sergeant Eugene was born in Legnano, Italy in 1915 from Swiss and Italian parents. In 1917, together with his mother and sister, he came to New York City to join his father who had immigrated in 1916. In 1921 the family moved to Schenectady, his lifelong home. 

Eugene graduated from Mount Pleasant High School in Schenectady taking a technical electrical concentration. 

From 1933 to 1936 he was in the 27th Infantry Division of the New York State National Guard. ln 1943 he was inducted in the Army from Vermont where he had been working, He served with the 66th Infantry in the States and with the 28th Division "D" Company, 112th Infantry Regiment overseas. He was one of the US Soldiers who marched down the Champs Elysees celebrating the liberation of Paris in August 1944. He was in the famous photo and US Postage Stamp commemorating the event. In September 1944 he was wounded near Wallendorf, Germany and was evacuated to a hospital in England. On Thanksgiving day 1944, he returned to his Company. He was wounded in The Battle of the Bulge and again evacuated to England. He received two Purple Hearts. He was assigned to a base in France from May 1945 to December 1945 obtaining a T/5 rank. He was discharged from Camp Dix on January 5, 1946. 

He was married on June 5, 1947 to Irene Ferri. He had two children and four grandchildren. He lived in Guilderland for 55 years.

Sgt Gary W Villeneuve

Gary served in the Air Force.

SPC4 George A Zimmer

George serviced in the Army, in the 1st Calvary division from 1965 - 1967. His rank was of SPC4 as a 11B Infantryman and radio telephone operator. Fire bases and combat outposts were located at An Khe, Pleiku and Bong Son.

The following is a listing, by first name and last name, of our 2019 service member honorees. 

• Nicholas Ingle
• Nicholas Jaeger
• Joseph Laviano
• Matthew Schiller
• Tylor Stevens
• D. Worden

The following is a listing, by first and last name, of our 2018 service member honorees. 

• Paul Ableman
• John Camadine
• Todd J. Clark
• Kenneth H. Clikeman
• Gerald D. D'Amelia
• Joseph T. DiMura, Jr.
• Kyle A. Ellis