Katherine Quinones

Katherine Quinones served in the New York Army National Guard and achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant.

Ms. Quinones embarked on her Army journey as a high school junior in 1984, completing Basic Combat and Advanced Individual Training; her expertise lies in Human Resource and Automated Logistics. In 1996, she joined the New York Counterdrug Task Force, serving as a drug prevention specialist and Regiment Administrator for the Cadets. When 9/11 struck, she promptly reported for duty at the New York/Canadian border for a 30-day assignment.

Over 32 years and 10 months, Ms. Quinones thrived in the New York Army National Guard, dedicating 20 years to the Counter Drug Task Force. Her commendable service garnered her accolades such as the Defense Meritorious Service Medal and the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, among others. Post-retirement, she earned an Associate degree in Liberal Arts and mastered American Sign Language.

Ms. Quinones remains deeply involved in veteran organizations, including the Blue Star Mother’s Veteran Women’s Coffee House, Compeer Corps of Monroe County, and the Veteran’s Outreach Center Female Veteran’s Group. She also passionately leads the 209th Regiment of Cadets, guiding youth toward community service and positive living.

Her selflessness extends to Family Readiness Group volunteering, wreath-laying with Webster's Wreaths Across America, and aiding military personnel's transition to civilian life. She's an active member of the Monroe County American Legion Honor Guard, providing final honors for fallen comrades. Additionally, she co-founded a coalition supporting Latino veterans and families.

In a remarkable act of generosity, Ms. Quinones donated a kidney during the global pandemic in 2021. She's a trailblazer as the first female Commander in VFW 412 Chili Memorial Post, recently  reelected for the 2023-2024 term, and serves as the VFW District 8 Junior Vice Commander.

Outside her commitments, Ms. Quinones cherishes moments with her grandkids, enjoys reading, and relishes hikes. She has been married to fellow veteran, Pedro, for 38 years, and they share five  children (two currently deployed) and six grandchildren, with one more on the way.