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From Clarkstown to Combat: Navy Sailor Honored by State Senator for Exemplary Service

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11 months ago

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Senator Bill Weber Honors Hospital Corpsman First Class Andrew V. Velikic with State Senate Proclamation

Nanuet, NY — In a heartfelt ceremony held at his district office, New York State Senator Bill Weber formally presented a New York State Senate Proclamation to Hospital Corpsman First Class (FMF/SW/AW/IW/PJ) Andrew V. Velikic in recognition of his outstanding and courageous service to the United States of America.

A proud graduate of Clarkstown High School South, HM1 Velikic has exemplified heroism, leadership, and dedication since enlisting in the United States Navy in 2011. His decorated military career includes combat medical service in Afghanistan, where he provided lifesaving care under fire, and key leadership roles aboard the USS Boxer during a successful Western Pacific deployment with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

In 2024, HM1 Velikic earned two of the Navy’s highest distinctions:

  • Pacific Fleet Sea Sailor of the Year

  • Fleet Marine Force (Senior) Independent Duty Corpsman of the Year

“Hospital Corpsman First Class Velikic has served our country with unmatched professionalism and bravery,” said Senator Weber (R-38). “It was my distinct honor to recognize his service with a New York State Senate proclamation.”

Senator Weber, who represents Rockland County and parts of Orange County, has long been an advocate for veterans, military families, and public servants. He regularly hosts Veterans Advisory Council meetings and recently celebrated his third annual Veterans Appreciation Reception last month.

The ceremony was attended by Andrew Velikic’s family, who joined Senator Weber in honoring his extraordinary achievements and commitment to service.

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West Point Memorial Monument Unveiled at La Fière Bridge Honors WWII Leaders

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8 hours ago

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June 10, 2026

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A new West Point Memorial Monument was unveiled on June 4, 2026, at La Fière Bridge in Sainte-Mère-Église, France, as part of the 82nd Anniversary commemoration of D-Day.

The monument honors more than 150 graduates of the United States Military Academy at West Point’s Long Gray Line who led and fought during Operation Overlord, the Allied invasion of Normandy that began on June 6, 1944.

Among the most notable West Point graduates associated with the Normandy campaign are General Dwight D. Eisenhower, Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force; Lieutenant General Omar Bradley, who commanded U.S. ground forces on D-Day; Lieutenant General J. Lawton Collins, who led VII Corps during the assault on Utah Beach; and Major General Maxwell D. Taylor, who commanded the 101st Airborne Division during the airborne operations preceding the landings. These leaders played pivotal roles in planning and executing the operation that helped turn the tide of World War II in Europe.

Situated near the historic La Fière Bridge, a strategic objective during the Normandy campaign and the site of intense fighting following the airborne landings, the memorial stands as a lasting tribute to the courage, leadership, and sacrifice of West Point graduates who served during the liberation of Europe.

The bridge itself was a critical objective for Allied airborne forces, particularly elements of the 82nd Airborne Division, who fought to secure crossings and protect the inland advance from Utah Beach. The surrounding area remains one of the most studied and visited battlefields of the Normandy campaign.

The unveiling ceremony brought together military leaders, dignitaries, historians, veterans, and members of the public to honor the legacy of those who fought during D-Day and the broader Normandy campaign. The monument serves as a permanent reminder of the contributions made by generations of West Point graduates in defense of freedom during World War II.

Photo: Samantha Sergi

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Government

Rockland County Promotes Native Plants and Water-Smart Landscaping

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1 week ago

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June 3, 2026

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The Water Advisory Council is encouraging residents to embrace water-smart landscaping practices that conserve water and support environmental health.

Officials recommend reducing nonfunctional lawn areas and replacing them with native plants, drought-tolerant landscaping, rain gardens, bioswales, and rain barrels. These practices help reduce water consumption, manage stormwater runoff, improve groundwater recharge, and increase resilience to climate change.

According to the Council, water demand in Rockland County rises from an average of 30 million gallons per day to as much as 45 million gallons per day during the warmer months, placing additional strain on local water supplies.

Residents are encouraged to consider native plants such as Creeping Phlox, Foamflower ‘Elizabeth Oliver,’ and Jacob’s Ladder, which require less watering once established and are well-suited to local conditions.

Examples of successful rain gardens featuring native plants can be found at Orangeburg Library, Bowline Point Park, Kennedy Dells County Park, and Piermont Library.

By replacing sections of lawn with native plants and incorporating features that manage rainwater naturally, residents can play a direct role in protecting Rockland County’s water resources.

The initiative is part of the county’s ongoing effort to promote sustainable landscaping and encourage participation in the national “Less Lawn More Life” movement.

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