Sen. Kaminsky Inducts Two World War II Vets into Veterans Hall of Fame

(Albany, New York) — Today, Senator Todd Kaminsky inducted two South Shore World War II veterans into the New York State Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame. Baldwin resident Dave Marshall and Oceanside resident Daniel Breier were bestowed with this honor — the most prestigious a State Senator can present to a military veteran.

“These two gentlemen put their lives on the line to protect our freedoms, and truly represent the greatest generation,” said Senator Todd Kaminsky. “I was pleased to induct Corporal Marshall and Battalion Sergeant Major Breier into the Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame and honor them for their achievements, both in the military as well as in their respective communities. Their service serves as an inspiration to all of us, and the sacrifices they made will never be forgotten.”

Dave Marshall grew up in Queens, New York, and served honorably as a member of the 84th Infantry Division, also known as the “Railsplitters” between 1943 to 1946. A combat infantryman and corporal, Mr. Marshall served on the front-lines throughout the European front during some of the most intense fighting of the war. He was deployed on Omaha Beach in November 1944, and during The Battle of the Bulge, one of the most deadly and impactful battles in American military history.  Following the surrender of Germany, Mr. Marshall spent the remainder of his time in the military working with his unit to free prisoners who had been captured by the Nazis and held throughout Europe. After leaving the Armed Forces in 1946, Mr. Marshall earned a degree in chemistry from City College, and made a career of making and selling cosmetics machinery. Mr. Marshall currently lives in Baldwin, New York with his wife Ester, who he has been married to since 1949. Together, they have two children and six grandchildren.

Daniel Breier served honorably in both the 87th and 24th Infantries during the Second World War, rising all the way from Private to Battalion Sergeant Major, the highest rank for an enlisted man. Assigned to the Pacific Theater, Mr. Breier spent time stationed in both New Guinea and the Philippines. Serving with the 24th Infantry, Mr. Breier fought as an infantryman during the invasion of Leyte and Mindanao. For his actions in battle on the Philippine Island of Mindoro, Mr. Breier was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for acts of meritorious service in a combat zone.  Following the war, Mr. Breier attended City College and eventually became a Certified Public Accountant. Mr. Breier resides in Oceanside, New York, and has been married to his wife Zelda for more than 60 years. Together, they have three children and four grandchildren.