Vet Awarded Key To Suffolk County

Suffolk County held a  "Thank You" Breakfast to honor two Long Island veterans at Villa Lombardi's in Holbrook Tuesday.

Steve Clark, retired U.S.N. and founder of 9-1-1 Veterans, and Bill Johnson, one of Long Island's  Tuskegee Airman, were honored for their actions.

"The contributions of these men constitute the model of public service and self-sacrifice that has made our nation the greatest on earth," Suffolk County Executive Steve Levy said. "It is truly my honor and privilege to join with Suffolk's veteran population in honoring the historical contributions of Tuskegee Airman Johnson and to recognize the efforts of Mr. Clark on behalf of all Long Island veterans."

The Tuskegee Airmen were the first African-American military aviators in the United States. During World War II, these men came from all over the country to be trained at Tuskegee Army Air Field in Alabama. Five pilots graduated in the first aviation class which began in July 1941. Over the next five years, 996 men graduated TAAF, and 450 were sent to fight overseas.

"I am very honored," Johnson said. Although Johnson is a resident of Nassau, today he was given a Suffolk County Flag as a token of appreciation on behalf of all Long Island vets.

Founder of 911 Veterans Steve Clark, retired U.S.N., Suffolk County police officer was also awarded a unique honor at the event. The first ever "Key to the County" was bestowed upon him for his dedication and service to Long Island veterans.

Clark formed 9-1-1 Veterans in 2008,  a non-profit organization dedicated to helping Long Island Veterans. Donations received are used to assist those in need whether it be rent, medical bills, car repairs, food and clothing, or other areas. Since its inception, the group has raised over $200,000 to support local veterans.

One of Clark's main focuses is raising awareness for that crucial transition between military and civilian life. He believes that more needs to be done while on active duty so our veterans can be 100 percent ready physically and emotionally to return home.

"It's not about the accolades," Clark said. "We're a grassroots organization that raises its own funds to support local vets."

Christopher Delaney, of 9-1-1 Veterans, said that the group treats the money as if it's their own. They will write checks for whatever specific service is needed. The vets they assist are referred to them by the Veterans Association and are willing to help themselves.

However many fundraisers they host, donations are always needed.

"If everyone would just give up a cup of coffee a day, we wouldn't need fundraisers,"Delaney said.

Levy said the key is a way to honor those who go above and beyond; it is an acknowledgement for any outstanding individual deemed worthy of more than a proclamation.

"It's a small gesture for us to say thank you to our veterans for preserving our freedoms. We can't thank them enough, but this is the least we could do," Levy said.

The breakfast was well-received by veterans in attendance and many look forward to next year's event.

James Papandrea, a Marine who received a Purple Heart in World War II said, "It was very nice of Villa Lombardi's to host the first annual breakfast and I hope it does continue. It's nice to see they haven't forgotten us."