Robin Michelle Smith served as an Education and Training Technician in the United States Air Force Reserve.
Ms. Smith is a dedicated advocate, mentor, and leader with nearly 20 years of experience in both military and civilian roles, embodying the Air Force’s core value of “Service Before Self.”
Joaquin Afonso achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant in the United States Army Reserve.
Born during World War II, Mr. Afonso moved from Brooklyn to Mineola, New York at just one week old. Growing up in a family deeply committed to military service, he was inspired by their dedication and followed in their footsteps. After receiving a college deferment, he enlisted in the Reserve in 1964, reporting to Fort Dix for basic training.
Thomas Francis Minogue served in the United States Army and achieved the rank of Private First Class. He is recognized in honor of his extraordinary bravery and selflessness during the Vietnam War.
A young man from Inwood, Private First Class Minogue was deeply rooted in a community where service to the Nation was a revered duty. As a medic with the HHC, 2nd Battalion, 35th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division, he showcased immense courage and a profound commitment to his comrades.
Thomas Pike served in the United States Army and achieved the rank of Colonel.
A native New Yorker, Mr. Pike served for over 30 years with the Armed Forces. He grew up in Manhattan and attended school on the Upper East Side. His career as a military intelligence officer prominently featured support for the Global War on Terrorism, where he held multiple leadership positions of increasing responsibility.
Frank F. Gee served in the United States Army and achieved the rank of Specialist (E-4).
A Vietnam-era veteran, Mr. Gee was honorably discharged in September 1963 after two years of service. After his induction in 1961, he underwent intensive medical training and was stationed in Alabama at a military hospital.
Frank LaMarsh enlisted in the United States Navy and achieved the rank of Petty Officer 3rd Class.
After high school, in 1969, Mr. LaMarsh trained at the Naval School of Construction in Davisville, Rhode Island and was assigned to the Public Works Great Lakes Naval Training Center as a member of CBMU 401. He was reassigned to MCB 62, working on the Seabee base at Gulfport, Mississippi that was destroyed by Hurricane Camille.
Aaron Yi is a proud United States Army veteran who served as a Private First Class E-3.
Mr. Yi was honorably discharged due to injuries sustained during combat training. He was born and raised in Flushing, Queens. He has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to service and community.
After his medical retirement from the Army, Mr. Yi pursued higher education, earning an Associate degree from LaGuardia Community College and, later, a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Queens College.
David Brisbane achieved the rank of Corporal E-4 in the United States Marine Corps.
Mr. Brisbane enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1964 and served on active duty through 1967 during the Vietnam War. From 1967 to 1970, he served on inactive reserve duty.
Mr. Brisbane recalls joining the military because it was simply what young country boys did when they were old enough. He followed in the service of his older brother.
Patrick Wemitt is the embodiment of service to others. He served his country as a retired United States Marine Corps Sergeant E-5, his community as a civic leader, and the youth of Columbia and Greene counties as an educator and coach. Through his selfless contributions, Mr. Wemitt has left an indelible mark on our region, representing the ideal of good citizenship.
Hector Vazquez has spent his life in service, from the cockpit of a C-141B Starlifter as a Technical Sergeant in the United States Air Force to the streets of Manhattan.
Mr. Vazquez’s journey began at Aviation High School in Queens, where he honed his technical expertise before enlisting in the Air Force in 1985. Initially serving as an Aircraft Technician, he soon transitioned into the role of Flight Engineer. After training in Oklahoma, he joined the 702nd Military Airlift Squadron.