Issues: Veterans

State Senator Patty Ritchie recently took part in Mental Health Awareness Day in Albany recently, speaking to veterans advocates and urging continued funding of the Pfc. Joseph Dwyer Peer Support Program for Veterans. 

Advocating for mental health services for veterans, Senator Patty Ritchie addressed the Mental Health Association in New York State (MHANYS) and American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) at the Association's annual legislative lobby day rally in Albany.

Senate Majority Coalition Leader Dean Skelos today invited local residents to nominate veterans from their community whose service on behalf of our nation designates worthy of induction to the New York State Veterans Hall of Fame.

This on-line Hall of Fame is designed to pay tribute to New Yorkers whose gallantry in the U.S. Armed Forces is complemented by their service to the community.

“The Senate takes this opportunity to honor the brave men and women who serve our nation and protect our freedom as members of the military, said Senator Skelos.  “The Senate Veterans Hall of Fame pays tribute to all who serve, but also singles out for special recognition those whose sacrifices and service have helped make our nation and our community better places to live.”

Pushes For PFC Joseph Dwyer PTSD Peer Counseling

In an effort to build on the achievements of the PFC Joseph Dwyer PTSD Peer-to-Peer Veterans Counseling Program, Senator Lee M. Zeldin (R-C-I, Shirley) successfully pushed for language in the State Senate’s Budget Resolution revealed today that begins the process to continue and potentially expand this meaningful program.

Bath, N.Y., March 7—State Senator Tom O’Mara (R-C, Big Flats) and Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C,I-Corning) today urged area residents to support the veterans assistance organization RenovatingHope by voting daily online in the The Home Depot Foundation’s 2nd annual “Aprons in Action” contest.

In a joint statement, O’Mara and Palmesano said: “We are proud to take every opportunity that we possibly can to support our veterans.  We hope that as many area residents as possible will join us in this effort to help RenovatingHope make a life-changing difference for another local hero.”