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HAVERSTRAW, NY – The Gulf War/War on Terror Monument was designed by a group of Veterans from each of these conflicts. The land where this Monument has been built was purposely designated by Rockland County so that it overlooks the 9/11 Memorial that is forever tied to all of these struggles.

The Monument itself is comprised of several sections:

Five concrete barriers known as T-Walls. T-Walls have been used in Iraq and Afghanistan to protect service members from indirect and direct fire. Mounted on these walls are granite plaques with the eight names of those service members who lost their lives in support of combat operations throughout the conflict areas.

The back wall shows a timeline of the conflicts carved in granite. The center of this wall is a Gold Star that represents all of the families who have lost loved ones during this period. In front of the Gold Star is a rifle facing downward with a helmet on top and combat boots at its base. This is the symbol all service members know as a memorial to a lost comrade in battle.

To the side of the wall is a statue of Megan Leavey, CPL (Ret.), USMC, and her military working dog Rex. This statue is purposely set back on overwatch of this sacred ground. The ground around the monument and between the walls is the color of desert sand. The T-walls are set with wider bases so that visitors to the site can sit and pay tribute to those who served. It is the hope of the committee who designed this Monument that this place will become a site for those who have served to come and reflect on their service, remember those they lost and find some closure to the horrors of war.

Eight names are currently listed on the Monument. SN Gilbert A. Fontaine and SSG Tatiana Dees who gave their lives in Desert Storm. CPL Manuel Lopez III, CPT Phillip Esposito, CPL Steve Vahaviolos and CPL Justin Rivero Garcia who gave their lives in Iraq. SGT Edward Bolen and MAJ Thomas E. Kennedy who gave their lives in Afghanistan. The monument was opened in November of 2018.

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We’re Back: A Note to Our Readers After Website Updates

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To our readers, we apologize for our recent absence.

Our website underwent construction and technical updates, which temporarily prevented us from publishing and, unfortunately, from notifying our readers about the work ahead of time. We understand that the lack of communication may have been confusing, and we’re sorry for the inconvenience.

The good news is that we’re back online. Our team has completed the necessary work, and this page is once again available to our readers.

We appreciate your patience and understanding while we worked behind the scenes. Thank you for continuing to visit, read, and support our website.

Welcome back — and thank you for being here.

— The Editorial Team

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All American Pet Day Honors Beloved Pets and Shelter Animals Waiting for Homes

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A day to honor beloved pets while remembering the animals still waiting for homes like “Cookie”. Would someone please adopt her!

Pets have a special way of becoming part of the family. They greet us at the door, offer comfort on difficult days, bring joy through simple moments and remind us of the importance of kindness and companionship.

Today, on All American Pet Day, pet owners across the country are celebrating the dogs, cats and other animals that have become cherished members of their households. The observance is also an opportunity to recognize the countless animals in shelters that are still waiting for a place to call home.

Every year, shelters and rescue organizations care for animals in need of safety, medical attention and a second chance. Many of these pets are loving, loyal companions who simply have not yet found the right family. Some have been overlooked because of their age, size, breed, or because they may need extra patience and understanding after difficult experiences.

Shelter workers and volunteers often say that one of the most rewarding moments is watching an animal who has spent months or even years waiting finally walk out the door with a new family.

Adopting a pet is a commitment, but for those who are ready, it can be life-changing for both the animal and the adopter. Many shelters also offer opportunities to foster, volunteer, donate supplies or simply share information about animals looking for homes.

For those who already have pets, All American Pet Day is a reminder to celebrate the bond they share. A walk around the neighborhood, extra playtime, a favorite treat or a visit to the veterinarian are all ways to show appreciation for the animals who give so much unconditional love.

And for those considering adding a pet to their family, local shelters are filled with animals waiting for someone to see their potential.

Whether they have been with us for years or are still waiting behind a kennel door, every pet deserves compassion, care and a chance to be loved.

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