Senator Martins Inducts John S. Davanzo Into New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame

D-Day Survivor, Community Leader Honored

On Flag Day, June 14, Senator Jack M. Martins inducted John S. Davanzo of Mineola into the New York State Senate Hall of Fame, which recognizes outstanding veterans from the state who have distinguished themselves both in military and civilian life.

Each Senator was asked to nominate a veteran from each of the Senate Districts. Senator Martins chose to induct Mr. Davanzo as the veteran from the 7th Senate District. “There were many deserving veterans who live in the 7th Senate District. For this year’s honor, I nominated Mr. Davanzo. He is a survivor of D-Day and has been a tremendous statesman for our community,” Senator Martins said. “I congratulate all of the honorees and salute Mr. Davanzo for his service and what he has meant to our community.”

Mr. Davanzo received a certificate naming him to the Senate Veterans Hall of Fame during a ceremony in the State Legislative Office Building. In addition, a poster containing his photo and biography hangs along with those of the other honorees in the lobby of the State Legislative Office Building.

After the ceremony, Mr. Davanzo sat on the floor of the Senate Chambers in the New York State Capitol Building, where he was recognized by Senator Martins.

Here is the official biography of John S. Davanzo:

John S. Davanzo

On June 8, 1944, during the invasion of Normandy, the U.S.S. Glennon, a Gleaves-class destroyer, struck a mine off Normandy and was eventually sunk by shore batteries. Among the survivors was John S. Davanzo.

John returned to his hometown of Mineola after his service in World War II. Those who came to know him over the years marvel at his involvement in his community and the care and compassion he shows for others.

Living each day as though it is a gift, John’s love of life and his kind and generous spirit has had a profound impact on numerous organizations and fellow citizens over the years. John has dedicated his time to numerous organizations such as the Mineola Volunteer Fire Department, Knights of Columbus, Kiwanis and Rotary among others as well as to the veterans organizations in his hometown - the Veterans of Foreign Wars Private Adolph Block Post #1305 and the American Legion Mineola Memorial Post #349. John has even found time to volunteer at St. Francis Hospital and at Mineola Village Hall.

In his professional life, John served in government as the Deputy Mayor of Mineola as well as Town of North Hempstead Councilman and also Town of North Hempstead Clerk.

John answered the call when his country needed him the most, serving in the United States Navy. He never takes any moment for granted. For John, each day is an opportunity to help someone and his community.