RockVets Newsletter May 2026

Editorial by Jerry Donnellan - May 2015

When I was a little kid in Nyack I couldn't wait for the Memorial Day Parade. I had a new bike -- a two-wheeler, and I was going to weave red, white, and blue crepe paper in the spokes and ride at the end of the Memorial parade like the big kids did. By big kids then I meant 11 and 12 year olds. I was all set to go when a cranky old veteran told me that Memorial Day was not about having fun. The world has turned a couple of times since then and now that I'm the cranky old veteran I understand - and I chafe when people wish me a "Happy Memorial Day," but, being now a man of peace, I just smile and nod.

Since World War II we have steadily drifted away from the meaning of Memorial Day. In 1971 it became the Monday holiday changed from the original 30th of May. This made it open season on shopping and sales and truly commercialized the day. In 1973 the Draft ended, so fewer families understood military service and its cost.

In 1987, the Rockland County Vietnam Vets came together and started the Watchfires. We decided they should be on the traditional Memorial Day and not require a band, fireworks, or an audience other than those who understood. Somebody actually told me they were inconvenienced. It seems to have become a second Fourth of July.

On Memorial Day I saw an ad taken out by one of our local politicians thanking the troops and veterans. Of course that was the small print. The bigger part of the ad was a picture of himself. That's all well and good, but it ain't about troops or veterans.

It's about those who are no longer troops and didn't live long enough to be veterans. But I guess they can't vote - except maybe in Chicago. That's not to say that the day has to be spent hanging crepe, or acting as if you're at a wake or sitting shiva. But somewhere in the course of the day take the time to remember - and tell the kids.

I've been to war and the short of that is, it's hard to know the true cost. Trying to explain this is also hard. Although it doesn't happen often, you know how you feel when you're at the Mall and someone stops and lets you take a parking space that they could have taken? You think what a nice person -- you even tell your friends and family -- maybe even for a day or two. Well, the people we honor on Memorial Day gave up more than their parking space. Remember them.
Jerry Donnellan. - 2015

Saturday, May 2nd, 2026: From 12:00 noon to 5:00 p.m. the Nam Knights of America MC, Hudson Valley Chapter, Inc. will have their Spring Bash 2026 Event. This will be held at the Hillcrest Fire Company No.1 which is located at 16 Thiells-Mt. Ivy Road, Pomona, New York 10970. Admission is $35.00 per person and includes food, water, and soda. Beer / wine wristbands are available for $10.00 each. For further information, please call Tom "T-Bone" Letizia at 845-623-0019.

Sunday, May 3rd, 2026: Suffern Street Fair
If you go to the Street Fair, stop and say hello to members of VVA #333. They will be there!
Suffern was founded in 1796 and is nestled near the base of the Ramapo Mountains. Suffern sits at the crossroads between NY and NJ and is 35 miles north of NYC. It is renowned for its eclectic restaurants and quaint shops and is home to the historical Lafayette theater.

The Suffern show has been running for 31 years and boasts 180 exhibitors and 13,000 – 15,000 visitors to our Street Fairs, which include Art, Crafts, Sculpture, Photography. Business and commercial exhibits. Great food, music, kid’s rides, including miniature golf, bumper cars and amusements draw even more crowds to this amazing fun filled event.
The fair is held 10 am – 5 pm rain or shine on Lafayette Avenue.
GPS address: 96 Lafayette Avenue, Suffern, NY l090l

Wednesday, May 6th and Saturday, May 23rd, 2026:
Wednesday, May 6, 2026, 11 am – 3 pm
Saturday, May 23, 2026, 11 am – 3 pm
https://www.orangetown.com/document/camp-shanks-museum/

Available for private tours. Please call (845) 304-6809
Wednesday, May 6th and Saturday May 23rd, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
The Camp Shanks Museum is open to the public. Admission is free.
The Camp Shanks Freedom Trail memorializes the sacrifice of the nearly 1.3 million soldiers that passed through Camp Shanks. The trail marks the route that soldiers took from Camp Shanks to the Piermont Pier so that others can follow in their footsteps. Click HERE for map. Many thanks to the hard work of Eagle Scout, Michael Hanebuth, Troop 2055 Blauvelt, NY for building the trail and creating the detailed map.
https://www.orangetown.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Camp-Shanks-Freedom-Trail-Guide-and-Map-V5.-Final-Draft-1.pdf

Thursday, May 7th, 2026: Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter #333 April meeting will be on May 7th, 2026. The VVA Board of Directors meets at 6:30 p.m. and the Membership meeting starts at 7:30 p.m. The Chapter welcomes current, former and prospective VVA members to attend. The meetings are held at the Kearsing-Edwards American Legion Post #1600, 20 Station Road, Pomona, New York 10970. See below for further information and Zoom link to meeting.

Friday, May 8th, 2026: Veteran's Game Day Social Luncheon from 11:00am to 2:00pm at the Community Center Town of Clarkstown - Auditorium located at 31 Zukor Road, New City, New York 10956. All Veterans and their spouses, Caregivers and Gold Star families are welcome to join us to play games including BINGO and TRIVIA for prizes. See further details below.

May 15th to 20th: Suffern Middle School Vietnam Memories program presented by members of Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter #333.

Memorial Day Ceremonies and Events:

Thursday, May 21st, 2026: The Rockland County Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony will be on May 21st, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. at the Gulf War Memorial, 21 Gagan Road at Haverstraw Bay Park, Haverstraw, New York 10927.

Sunday, May 24th, 2026: The Raymond W. DeMeola VFW Memorial Post 1615 of Blauvelt will have their annual Memorial Day Ceremony at The Walkway of Heroes, Sunday, May 24th, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. The Walkway is located at Independence Avenue and Lowe Lane, Tappan, New York 10983. The public is welcome to attend.

Sunday, May 24th, 2026: The annual Memorial Day ceremonies at Frederick Loescher Veterans Memorial Cemetery and Onderdonk Cemetery at Rockland Community College will be held on May 24th, 2026 starting at noon at Loescher Veterans Memorial Cemetery and going to Onderdonk Cemetery afterwards.

Monday, May 25th, 2026:

The John M. Perry American Legion Post 1044's Memorial Day events are as follows: 9:00 a.m. - Palisades Ceremony - to be held at the War Monument in Triangle Square, intersection of Closter Road and Route 9W.
11:30 a.m. - Sparkill Parade & Ceremony - starts at the Sparkill Firehouse and finishes at Depot Square Town Park. Memorial Day Ceremony immediately follows (approximately 11:50 a.m.)

Friday, May 29th, 2026: Watchfire Ceremonies will begin at 11:30 p.m. on May 29th, and Watchfires will be lit at midnight and burn for 24 hours on the traditional Memorial Day, May 30th. The Watchfires will be held at these sites: East End of the Piermont Pier, top of Clausland Mountain in Orangeburg, Eugene Levy Park on Route 45 in Pomona, and Bowline Point Park in Haverstraw, New York.

Please check with your local Villages and Towns, as well as local American Legion and VFW Posts to see what other ceremonies will be held in your area.

WATCHFIRES – KEEPING A VIGIL FOR THE LOST PATROL

On May 30, 1987, the traditional Memorial Day, members of Rockland County Chapter #333, Vietnam Veterans of America, first came together to build Watchfires along the western shores of the Hudson River.

Watchfires date back to our country’s first war. George Washington used them to signal the ceasefire ending the Revolutionary War. Reference is made in "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" to the use of them in the Civil War.

We built our fires according to the military specifications of the 1700’s: 21 foot square at the base and 21 feet high. We used the mountain-tops when we could, which were reminiscent of our fire bases in Vietnam. Each year, the fires are lit at midnight, to burn for the 24 hours of the traditional Memorial Day. We stand watch, changing shifts as we had a generation ago, symbolically keeping watch for our lost patrol that still has not returned, and the patrols of past wars, to our country’s first soldiers who fought and may still wander along these shores.

Watchfire Ceremonies will begin at 11:30 p.m. on May 29th, and Watchfires will be lit at midnight and burn for 24 hours on the traditional Memorial Day, May 30th. The Watchfires will be held at these sites: East End of the Piermont Pier, top of Clausland Mountain in Orangeburg, Eugene Levy Park on Route 45 in Pomona, and Bowline Point Park in Haverstraw, New York.

Check out the VVA Chapter #333 website here: https://www.vva333.com

Nam Knights Spring Bash 2026

On Saturday, May 2nd, 2026, from 12:00 noon to 5:00 p.m. the Nam Knights of America MC, Hudson Valley Chapter, Inc. will have their Spring Bash 2026 Event. This will be held at the Hillcrest Fire Company No. 1 which is located at 16 Thiells-Mt. Ivy Road, Pomona, New York 10970. Admission is $35.00 per person and includes food, water, and soda. Beer / wine wristbands are available for $10.00 each.

Nam Knights of America MC, Hudson Valley Chapter, Inc. is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization and all donations are tax deductible. For further information, please call Tom "T-Bone" Letizia at 845-623-0019.

Rockland County Times article
April 23rd, 2026 Edition
Article by Eileen O'Brien

Boots On the Ground
Do you remember where you were and what you were doing on January 27th, 1973?  Can you think back and visualize what event on TV was headlined on January 1st, 1969? Well if you’re like the average Senior Joe or Jane, it’s a reach to recollect. However, if you’re a member of Vietnam Veterans of America – Chapter 333 it’s just two of many dates that are burned into your memory forever. What will be burned in my memory forever is March 19th and March 24th, 2026 when I spent two days at Felix Festa Middle School in Clarkstown with this awe inspiring group of Vietnam Veteran heroes.

For the past 26 years, the “Memories of the Wall” program has been an annual tradition in a wonderful collaboration between the Vietnam Veterans of America – Chapter 333 and the Felix Festa’s Social Studies Dept., providing the students with an up close and personal opportunity to learn about and reflect on a time when our country was shaken to its very core by division as a result of the USA involvement in the Vietnam conflict. Through direct interaction with the Vietnam Veterans, who are now seniors, the Felix Festa students have front seats to this history.

Backpacks in tow, hundreds of students entered the auditorium to begin a journey that commenced over fifty years ago, led by the Vets who knew all the twists and turns of the terrain. While pundits allege that dates ground us and certain numbers shock us… 58,281 dead  American soldiers, comprised of the  sons, brothers, sisters, fathers, mothers, best friends of America’s future, and three million dead Vietnamese citizens who were loved and cherished by their families. How does one recover? Never forgetting, always respecting, and now diligently educating a younger generation of the very real faces of war. Or, in the words of the Vets, “Please try to imagine.” Imagine that you are the people that you are seeing on the screen, viewing with their eyes the conflict that was then and the memories that can never be erased and continues to this very day.

The “Memories of the Wall” Presentation takes you beyond the names of the over 58,000 servicemen and eight servicewomen killed in action memorialized on the wall located on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.  While the history book statistics inform you that the youngest American Soldier killed in Vietnam was 15 years old, that the average age of a combat infantryman was 18-20 years old, and that those American soldiers killed in action were, on average, a tender 23 years old, really bringing into focus this painful history, it is the stories commemorating these lives shared by mementos left at the Wall that quickens your heartbeat.

Since the wall was completed on November 13th, 1982, paid for entirely through private donations, over 400,000 items have been left to honor and commemorate these Veterans. The National Park Service, which is the agency in charge of this monument, owns a warehouse in Maryland where all the cherished items left at this memorial are cataloged and preserved, and then often displayed in rotating exhibits throughout the USA.

During the eerily quiet school assembly, the students heard about the Mom of a Vet who left a torn, tattered teddy bear that was dearly loved and cherished by her son in his childhood to comfort him for eternity at this memorial. We saw the picture of a Vietnamese soldier and his young daughter left at the Memorial Wall by an American Veteran. This Vet carried the picture of this unknown Vietnamese family (lost in the heat of battle) with him for 22 years after the death of this Vietnamese soldier in the war. The note this American Vet left at the Wall was simple and eloquent: “Dear Sir, For 22 years I have carried your picture. Rest in Peace.” We also learned that this same American Veteran returned to Vietnam 33 years after the war with a copy of the picture to reunite with the young girl pictured, now a forty year old woman, to try to repair in whatever way he could the lasting trauma inflicted on both of them by this war. Heads spinning, the captivated audience continued to focus on the stories of the Medics and Nurses who held the hands of the dying soldiers and then in their grief wrote to their dead comrades families about their bravery, children who wrote that they were proud of being told that they were the image of their deceased parent, and a scrap of paper from the brother who promised to continue to take care of his deceased big brother’s prized car.

But our journey wasn’t finished yet. Next stop was the Felix Festa School Library. That was when our Veteran-led journey became even more personal. The students were welcomed into the bedroom of a typical young person of the era. Vinyl records of all the popular singers, posters of all the movie and sports stars on the wall, a school sweatshirt, even a copy of  the ever useful Cliff Notes lying on the bed, to “help” the student “further understand” their reading assignment. Next came the mock ups of  “LIFE” magazine featuring pictures of American soldiers lost in just one week of the war along with the jungles they were fighting in. The young learners were even offered the experience of wearing a soldier’s real helmet from this conflict. Most personal of all, were copies of photos of our Veteran guides – from then and now.

Then the heart-pounding, labored-breath-inducing, eyes-burning part of the story took shape. The Vets, who were guiding us through this distant and far off land shared their personal experiences – the good, the bad, the funny, the not-so-funny, and the tragic. We learned about the different areas and jobs they were assigned to, their food experiences, which ranged from good to bad to horrible, the hygiene opportunities (or lack thereof), the letters from home, Agent Orange, cancer (13 types known  to date), PTSD, battle wounds, friends they lost, friends they made, “creatures” (snakes, fish, centipedes, scorpions, monkeys, rats, bugs) they encountered, “Pungi Pits” (holes with spikes in them), and  “Bouncing Betty’s (shrapnel) that they were always on the lookout for,  cigarettes whose new purpose during this war was for removing leaches, the pro and anti war sentiments in the media they faced while in combat, and then the outright ingratitude and misunderstanding they faced when they returned home. We then learned about how healing begins.

So how does this story end? Thankfully, it doesn’t. Reconciliation doesn’t end at the doors of Felix Festa, it continues to the far reaches of Vietnam where this group continues to visit and work on funding and building schools in this far off land. Both there and here understanding, healing, and relationships are being forged and maintained. It’s a story about not forgetting the past, while trying to heal, and all while educating our future.

In this writer’s personal paraphrase of Albert Camus:
“Great works are often born on a street corner or in a restaurant’s revolving door or at the American Legion Post in Pomona by the Vietnam Vets of America – Chapter  333. For further info, contact this wonderful group at PO Box 243, New City, New York 10956.

Link to the story in the Rockland County Times, April 23rd, 2026 Edition
https://rocklandtimes.com/2026/04/27/senior-lifestyle-with-eileen-obrien-7/

Vet-to-Vet: Special Events
THE ROCKLAND COUNTY JOSEPH P. DWYER
VETERAN PEER SUPPORT PROGRAM
WEEKLY WELLNESS AND OTHER ACTIVITIES FOR VETS

Friday, May 8th, 2026: Veteran's Game Day Social Luncheon from 11:00am to 2:00pm at the Community Center Town of Clarkstown - Auditorium located at 31 Zukor Road, New City, New York 10956. All Veterans and their spouses, Caregivers and Gold Star families are welcome to join us to play games including BINGO and TRIVIA for prizes. It’s time to come out, get together, socialize, eat lunch and have fun! This event is provided free of charge by Vet to Vet. There is plenty of parking available and the auditorium is very large with plenty of room for folks to spread out. Doors open at 10:40 am. RSVP: Required for Lunch! Contact us and reserve your seat early as we need a proper head count to order the catered meal.
Please contact Elise O'keefe-Edson at EOkeefeEdson@VetToVetRC.org or call 845-903-2332 to reserve a seat or if you have further questions.

Veterans Accessible Transportation
BRIDGES offers free door-to-door service to and from VA facilities in Montrose and Castle Point. A two week notice for scheduling or cancellations is required. Donations are welcomed. To schedule or learn more, call 845-624-1366 Ext. 139.

Dwyer Vet-to-Vet Wellness Activities
THE ROCKLAND COUNTY JOSEPH P. DWYER
VETERAN PEER SUPPORT PROGRAM
WEEKLY WELLNESS ACTIVITIES

VETERANS WALKING CLUB - Weekly - (Wednesdays) 9:30 am at PALISADES CENTER. Meet in front of BRIDGES, 2nd Floor, next door to Autobahn Indoor Speedway. We will walk between 45 minutes to an hour. Join a fast pace group, slow pace group or walk at your own pace for however long you want. The mall offers us a comfortable indoor venue regardless of the weather outdoors where we can gather together in camaraderie and get some fitness and exercise while we are walking.

Semper Fi,

"Li"

Elise O'Keefe-Edson, Veteran Outreach Coordinator

Joseph P. Dwyer Vet to Vet Peer Support Program, Rockland County, New York
Cell: (845) 903-2332

VVA #333 Monthly Meetings
Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter #333 -- monthly meeting is usually held on the first Thursday of each month, at Kearsing-Edwards American Legion Post #1600, 20 Station Road, Pomona, New York 10970.

The next meeting will be held on Thursday, May 7th, 2026
The VVA Board meets at 6:30 p.m. and the Membership meeting starts at 7:30 p.m.
The Chapter welcomes current, former and prospective VVA members to attend. The meetings are held at the Kearsing-Edwards American Legion Post #1600, 20 Station Road, Pomona, New York 10970.

If you would like to attend via Zoom, here is that information:
JOHN MASTANDREA is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: JOHN MASTANDREA's Zoom Meeting
Time: May 7, 2026 18:15 Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88572200783?pwd=bk4K7mJtsCK4bHdFv6TXMACcdp66uD.1

Meeting ID: 885 7220 0783
Passcode: 279891

One tap mobile
+16469313860,,88572200783#,,,,*279891# US
+16465588656,,88572200783#,,,,*279891# US (New York)

Join by SIP
• 88572200783@zoomcrc.com

Join instructions
https://us02web.zoom.us/meetings/88572200783/invitations?signature=lgbRD0oiuQSguKZe2YiJ88FcrHjwEP9mUJfp96kKTCc

Also, check out the new website for VVA #333. See it here: https://vva333.org

A note for veterans -- Get Your Annual PSA Test
A Message from Sandie Wilson, Chair, Agent Orange Committee

Prostate health is a concern for most men. The annual tests consist of a physical exam, a urine stream check, and a blood test to check PSA levels. Current medical policy is to skip the PSA blood test after age 70 years.

Most Vietnam veterans will not get a PSA because of age. You have the right to request a PSA from the VA. If the PSA is elevated, a biopsy is recommended. If cancer is detected, a Gleason test is done. The Gleason score test indicates how aggressive the cancer will grow in the individual.

Most non-veterans over 70 will have a low Gleason score. This is not the case for Vietnam
veterans. Most Vietnam veterans will be rated 8 or above. A low score is thought to mean the cancer is growing so slowly that something else will kill the individual before the prostate cancer takes its toll.

With the Gleason score in hand, the doctor presents choices for treatment. You, the patient, can help select the proper treatment. Most doctors will discuss life expectancy when using different treatments. The sooner the diagnosis is made, the better the outcome.

fI you are over 70, and a Vietnam veteran, request a PSA test with your annual checkup. You are entitled to do so.

Vietnam veteran exposed to Agent Orange and his disabled daughter challenge law that denies her benefit s

By LINDA F. HERSEY
STARS AND STRIPES • April 27, 2026

A military helicopter in July 1969 sprays Agent Orange over the Mekong Delta, near Can Tho, Vietnam. The image is part of the Bryan Grigsby Collection at the Vietnam Center and Sam Johnson Vietnam Archive at Texas Tech University. (Department of the Army Special Photographic Office)

WASHINGTON — A Vietnam veteran and his daughter, who was born with dwarfism, are challenging a federal law that grants benefits to children with certain birth defects only if their mother — but not their father — was exposed to Agent Orange while serving in the Vietnam War.

Army veteran Ron Christoforo, 78, and his daughter, Michele Christoforo, 33, both of Connecticut, filed a lawsuit on Monday in U.S. District Court for the District of Connecticut, alleging sex discrimination.

The Christoforos argue that the Department of Veterans Affairs unlawfully limits health care coverage and disability benefits solely to the disabled children of female veterans exposed to Agent Orange and other herbicides during military service in Vietnam.

“When the VA rejected my claim, they didn’t say my condition wasn’t real or that it wasn’t caused by Agent Orange. They said my father’s service didn’t count as the same as a mother’s would. How can that be legal?” Michele said.

Approximately 200 children with birth defects identified in the complaint have been born to female Vietnam veterans. By contrast, an estimated 350,000 children with birth defects were born to male Vietnam veterans, given that men served in much higher numbers than women, according to the lawsuit.

The lawsuit demands that the VA extend benefits equally to all qualifying disabled children of Vietnam veterans, regardless of whether the parent is their mother or their father, according to the lawsuit.

The lawsuit asks the court to declare the “sex-based distinction” unconstitutional.

“My daughter is being denied the help that other veterans’ children receive just because I’m her father. She deserves the same benefits any other veteran’s child would get,” Ron Christoforo said at a news conference, after the lawsuit was filed.

Modern scientific research has linked dioxin, a toxin in Agent Orange, to genetic damage and congenital disorders affecting veterans’ children, according to the lawsuit.

Ron Christoforo enlisted in the Army in 1969 and served as a telecommunications technician. His three years of service included a year deployed to Vietnam, where he was exposed directly to Agent Orange, according to the lawsuit.

In 1992, his daughter, Michele, was born with achondroplasia, a rare congenital birth defect that causes dwarfism. But neither parent had a family history of the medical condition.

The VA only recognizes achondroplasia, a congenital disorder that causes dwarfism, as a covered birth defect for the biological children of female Vietnam veterans who served in Vietnam between Feb 28, 1961, and May 7, 1975, according to the lawsuit.

Individuals with achondroplasia face significant challenges, including skeletal abnormalities, chronic pain, and spinal complications, according to the family.

The Christoforos are represented by Yale Law School’s Veterans Legal Services Clinic, in New Haven, Conn.

The VA declined to comment on the case, stating that it cannot discuss pending litigation.

Attorneys for the family assert that the VA is basing its benefit decisions on a 26-year-old statute that does not reflect modern science and violates the equal protection guarantee of the Fifth Amendment.

The Veterans Benefits and Health Care Improvement Act, enacted in 2000, authorizes the VA to provide compensation and health care for certain birth defects, such as cleft palate, congenital heart disease and achondroplasia, which is congenital dwarfism, in children born to women veterans who served in Vietnam.

Except for those with spina bifida, the children of male Vietnam veterans are ineligible for benefits, according to the lawsuit.

“At the time Congress adopted this sex-based provision in 2000, scientific research regarding genetic inheritance from fathers was in its infancy. However, research since 2000 demonstrates that paternal exposure to Agent Orange contributes to congenital birth defects at least as readily as maternal exposure,” according to the lawsuit.

“Our members came home from Vietnam carrying wounds that didn’t always show up right away, and some of those wounds were passed on to their children. The law recognized that for the children of women veterans. Scientific research does not justify this distinction. It is long past time it does the same for the children of the men who served alongside them,” said Linda Schwartz, a veteran and board member at the Vietnam Veterans of America.

Link to story: https://www.stripes.com/veterans/2026-04-27/vietnam-veteran-daughter-agent-orange-21505314.html?utm_source=Stars+and+Stripes+Emails&utm_campaign=8e9d005979-Newsletter+-+Veterans+news&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_0ab8697a7f-8e9d005979-296933127

You can use your VA benefits to land a career in the skilled trades

April 28, 2026

Kenneth Smith

Executive Director, Education Service

Link to story: https://news.va.gov/146431/use-your-va-benefits-career-skilled-trades/

Explore apprenticeships and on-the-job training opportunities in high-demand fields
During National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) from April 26 – May 2, VA is highlighting apprenticeships and other training and employment pathways that help Veterans prepare for careers in skilled trades, manufacturing, defense industrial base and maritime fields. Apprenticeships are a key part of helping Veterans move into high-demand fields that offer a direct path into the workforce.

Through NAW, VA and the Department of Labor (DOL) build awareness of apprenticeship programs with the goal of enrolling 1 million apprentices. DOL coordinates NAW to promote Registered Apprenticeships, in accordance with the National Apprenticeship Act.

Registered Apprenticeships combine paid employment, hands-on training, related instruction and a recognized credential. For Veterans, that can mean building new skills while earning a paycheck instead of choosing between work and training. This model is especially relevant in fields such as skilled trades, manufacturing, defense-related industry and maritime work, where employers need skilled workers—like Veterans who often bring experience that translates to the job.

Pathways for Veterans
Throughout National Apprenticeship Week, you’ll see emails, social media posts on our department channels and highlights on our webpages. VA will collect data on how well the content performs this week and use it to create new outreach opportunities throughout the year to raise awareness of apprenticeships.

We’re also focused on making those pathways easier to understand, easier to access and more closely connected to real workforce needs. For Veterans, the issue is not just whether opportunity exists. It’s whether the path forward is clear.

Some Veterans may want to explore apprenticeship or on-the-job training opportunities that can be supported through VA education benefits. Others may want to learn whether VA’s Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program can help them prepare for training, employment or a new career goal.

VA continues to build on these existing resources to help Veterans connect to real pathways into work, not just general information about them.

How do I know an apprenticeship is right for me?
The first step is often the hardest, but the choice is yours—and you have plenty of them! Apprenticeships are just one option.

On-the-job training and other employment pathways may also help, depending on your goals, experience and benefits. For those interested in fields like construction, manufacturing, industrial work or maritime careers, consider giving these pathways a closer look.

Where else can I get help?
Community partners, employers, workforce organizations, training providers and Veteran-serving groups can help by making these opportunities easier to find, easier to understand and easier to access. Stronger coordination between these groups can help connect Veterans to real jobs, practical training options and clearer next steps.

That’s why, over the next few weeks and months, VBA will hold stakeholder roundtable events, bringing together government, employers and partner organizations to help expand outreach and opportunity in these fields. VBA will also share information kits with Veterans, their support network, employers and others to connect Veterans to the pathways that deliver high-demand careers. Veterans can expect to start seeing these in their emails starting this week.

Where do I start?
National Apprenticeship Week highlights awareness of a pressing need, but the actionable goal of connecting Veterans to rewarding careers goes beyond a single week. Veterans already possess valuable experience; now it’s time to connect that experience to practical next steps in fields that need skilled workers now.

Veterans interested in taking the next step can review the following links and read about actual apprenticeships, on-the-job training and other career pathways that align with their goals:

The Lifetime Liberty Pass offers various benefits, including free entry to state parks, DEC-operated day-use areas, boat launch sites, historic sites, and more. It also provides perks like free golf at State Park golf courses, access to State Park pools, and discounts on camping and cabin rentals.

Link for information: Liberty Pass for Veterans and Gold Star Families

Eligibility

The Lifetime Liberty Pass allows qualified New York State (NY State) Veterans or Gold Star Parents, Spouses, and Children discounted use of state parks, historic sites, and recreational facilities operated by the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (NY State Parks) and the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Once issued, the Lifetime Liberty Pass will never expire.

New York State Veteran

A resident of NY State who is a Veteran, as such term is defined in section one of the Veterans’ services law.
A resident of NY State who has served on active duty for the state as a member of the state organized militia as defined in subdivision nine of section one of the military law and who was discharged or released therefrom under conditions other than dishonorable.
A resident of NY State who has served on active duty in the uniformed services of the United States or on active duty for the state as a member of the organized militia and has a qualifying condition, as defined in section one of the Veterans’ services law, and has received a discharge other than bad conduct or dishonorable from such service.
A resident of NY State who is a discharged LGBT Veteran, as defined in section one of the Veterans’ services law, and has received a discharge other than bad conduct or dishonorable from such service. Applicant must be a NY State resident. Section 26 of New York’s Veterans’ Services Law incorporates the federal definition of a parent, at U.S.C. 1126 to determine eligibility for the State’s Gold Star annuity program. The federal definition, which pertains to the federal Gold Star lapel program defines a Veteran as a service member who lost their life during armed conflicts, international terrorist attacks and military operations specified in federal rules.

New York State Gold Star Parent, Spouse, or Child

The term 'Gold Star Parent' for this program includes any biological parent, stepparent, and parent by adoption who was serving in the role of a parent to the service member at the time of the service member's death.
The term ‘Gold Star Spouse’ for this program includes any spouse or domestic partner of a Veteran whose death qualified the parent for an annuity.
The term ‘Gold Star Child’ for this program includes any biological, step, or legally adopted minor child of a Veteran whose death qualified the parent for an annuity.

Apply

To apply or learn more, visit the State Parks website or call 518-474-2324 during regular business hours.

Additional Assistance

If you need assistance, or just want to learn more about the benefits and services you may be eligible for, schedule an appointment with one of our Veterans Benefits Advisors, all Veterans themselves.

Call 1-888-838-7697 to speak to an advisor.
Schedule a phone or video consultation online.
Use our search to find a Services Office near you.

Memorial Day Weekend 2026!
NYS Parks Open for the Summer Season!

For great adventures and outdoor family fun, be sure to visit
Rockland County's NYS Parks:

Bear Mountain State Park
Blauvelt State Park
Harriman State Park
Nyack Beach State Park
Rockland Lake State Park
Tallman State Park

Caregivers coming together with a calendar

April 28, 2026

Melissa Comeau

MVCN Director

The sharing of non-VA information does not constitute an endorsement of products or services by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Veterans should always verify information with the organization offering the program.
https://news.va.gov/146303/caregivers-coming-together-with-a-calendar/

Caregiving can often feel overwhelming and lonely, but it doesn’t have to be. The  American Red Cross Military and Veteran Caregiver Network (MVCN) Event Calendar is a centralized hub designed to connect, educate, and support caregivers of military service members and Veterans through accessible and meaningful events.

What is the MVCN Event Calendar?
At its core, the MVCN calendar reflects the mission of Military and Veteran Caregiver Network: to reduce isolation and build community through peer support, education and shared experiences. This calendar brings together a wide range of opportunities tailored specifically to individuals who provide care for those who have served.

How does MVCN build community and reduce isolation?
One of the most popular types of events featured on the calendar is caregiver peer support groups. These groups, called “Sharing the Journey,” create a safe and confidential space where caregivers can share their experiences, challenges and successes with others who truly understand. These groups are facilitated by trained peers and emphasize empathy, encouragement and practical advice. These groups are designed to bring caregivers together for connection and peer support, reinforcing the importance of community in caregiving journeys. 

In addition, the MVCN calendar includes “Caregiver Chats” and Whole Health opportunities. Caregiver Chats are text-only events that allow caregivers who may be in a hospital setting or next to their care recipient to get support without needing to talk aloud. “Caregivers, Your Life and Your Health Matters” workshops are designed to give caregivers a chance to recharge, reflect and prioritize self-care. They emphasize the importance of maintaining physical and emotional health, an essential but often overlooked aspect of caregiving. ”Wellbeing YOU” is a weekly offering providing a self-care that can be practiced on your own time.

Educational webinars and trainings
These events focus on building skills and knowledge that caregivers can use in their daily lives. Topics may include mental health awareness, stress management, navigating health care systems, or financial and legal resources. By attending these sessions, caregivers gain tools that not only improve their caregiving abilities but also support their own well-being.
The calendar also highlights workshops and conferences, which often provide deeper dives into specialized topics. These events may feature expert speakers, interactive sessions and opportunities to engage with organizations that support military families. For caregivers looking to expand their network or learn from professionals in the field, these offerings can be especially valuable.

Why should I join?
Beyond structured programming, the calendar serves as a gateway to community-building opportunities. It connects caregivers to a broader ecosystem of support, including mentorship programs and online communities where ongoing interaction is possible.

Caregivers, whether new to the role or experienced, can find something relevant and helpful.
Ultimately, the MVCN Event Calendar is a powerful resource because it brings everything into one accessible place. Instead of searching across multiple platforms, caregivers can rely on this curated schedule to discover events that meet their needs. It reflects a holistic approach to caregiving support, combining emotional connection, practical education and personal wellness.

For anyone supporting a military service member or Veteran, exploring www.redcross.org/caregivers is a meaningful step toward finding community, gaining knowledge and feeling less alone.
Access the MCVN event calendar today!

VETERANS SERVICE AGENCY
20 Squadron Boulevard, Suite 101
New City, New York 10956-5258
Phone: (845) 638-5244 Fax: (845) 638-5730
Email: BranamS@co.rockland.ny.us
Susan Branam, Director

Our office has a Food Pantry for veterans and surviving spouses. We will gladly accept donations. Items can be dropped off during business hours, Monday - Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Our current wish list:

Protein Drinks
Sports Drinks
Peanut butter
Canned chili Jelly
Hot cocoa packets
Laundry detergent
Kitchen bags
Mayonnaise
Pretzels
Cookies/Crackers
Sponges
Dish soap
Cans of coffee
Canned fruit
Canned salmon
Canned Tuna and Spam
Pudding cups (non-refrigerated)
Rice
Pasta sauce
Aluminum Foil
Ziploc bags
Popcorn
Parmesan cheese
Cooking oil (not large)
Body wash
Socks (new)

Thank you!
*We cannot accept clothing at this time.

Faces of Freedom -- Oral Histories and Portraits of the Men and Women that Defend Our Country

I never served in the military, and I never had to make the sacrifices US military veterans have made. I decided I wanted to do something to show my gratitude to our veterans and I began my project which I call Faces of Freedom.

The project consists of interviews and photographs. I meet with veterans, record their personal history, and take their photo. I print the photo in black and white, frame it and present it to each veteran at no charge. The interview covers each veteran’s life before, during and after their time in the service. Each veteran has the opportunity to make any changes to their bio before it is finalized. I make no money from this project and the photos are free to each veteran.

Currently these photos and bios appear on my website www.facesoffreedom.us. They also appear on my Facebook page and the photos and stories of the WWII veterans have been sent to the National WWII Museum for their archives. There are currently 80 interviews and photos on the website. I hope to make this into an exhibit for universities, high schools, community centers, libraries, etc. to help increase awareness of the 3% of the population who is doing the heavy lifting so the rest of us can enjoy all that this country has to offer.

Every veteran has a story. Some stories are about combat, some are about funny memories, some stories are sad, and some are about things accomplished after their military service. All are about service to country and making sacrifices.

You have a story and I want to tell it to the rest of the people in the United States. Let’s pick a date and get together to record your history and tell it to our fellow citizens.

Regards,
Walter Schuppe
Avon, CT
Phone: (860) 558-1072
E-mail: walter11_22@yahoo.com

Please check out Vietnam veteran Roy Tschudy's book, "Endless." Roy is a past President of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter #333, and writes about a variety of experiences that our Vietnam vets encountered. As with all good books, be prepared to experience a lot of emotions with this: you will be intrigued, angry, surprised, maybe shed a tear or two, and laugh out loud at some of the shenanigans in this enjoyable tale of fact, fiction and myth. All proceeds of "Endless" go to help veterans. The book is available in paperback or Kindle edition from Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Endless-Roy-Tschudy/dp/1524668516/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Roy+Tschudy+Endless&qid=1638898608&sr=8-1#customerReviews
"Endless" is the second book authored by Roy Tschudy. His first book also had great reviews.
"Up Close and Personal" is available through Amazon as well.

VA: Hiring Veterans - Manage your career and employment benefits

County of Rockland: Visit our website to learn more about employment in Civil Service and to search for a variety of employment opportunities available to you within Rockland County. https://mycivilservice.rocklandgov. com/exams

Rockland County Department of Personnel has other job opportunities. Check out their website here: https://www.rocklandcountyny.gov/departments/personnel

NYS Department of Civil Service
Looking for a job with great benefits? Join New York State! Public servants for NYS enjoy benefits including:
*Generous PTO
*Health Insurance
*Hybrid Remote Work Options
Browse open positions: https://statejobs.ny.gov
#NYSJobs #NowHiring #WorkLifeBalance

VA Hudson Valley is hiring and enrolling! Our Veterans deserve the best and we need your help to deliver that care for them. Please share with your networks!
Hiring: We currently have 100+ job vacancies posted on our USAJOBS page, available USAJOBS - Search
These include clinical and non-clinical roles at our campuses in Montrose and Castle Point, as well many of our 7 clinics throughout the Hudson Valley. Applicants can review the great VA benefits we offer, to include, compensation, leave flexibilities, student loan forgiveness, health care benefits and retirement benefits.

Some of the jobs we need filled urgently are:

Nurse, including all Specialties – Montrose Campus
Medical Support Assistant - Montrose and Castle Point locations
AC Mechanic – Castle Point Campus

Always accepting applications for Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurse and Certified Nurse Assistant. VA wants to hear from you! If you have questions about any of the above positions, please contact Timothy.McGuigan@va.gov or call 503-307-0193.
For further information, contact Timothy J McGuigan, MS, HR Senior Consultant, VA Hudson Valley HCS -- (503) 307 0193. VISN2HRSBUHudsonValley@va.gov

The Department of Civil Service: The following examination announcements have been updated and added to our public website. When filing your online application, please be advised that technical assistance is available Monday – Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Please be advised that you will need a personal NY.gov ID to apply for Department of Civil Service examinations. If you do not have a personal NY.gov ID, please create an account. Here are some of the employment opportunity examinations coming up -- please view this link for further description of each position:

Continuous Recruitment Examinations
The Department also accepts applications for most continuous recruitment examinations on an ongoing basis, with no application deadline.

Continuous Recruitment Examinations -

https://www.cs.ny.gov/jobseeker/public/cr.cfm

HELP Program – No Examinations Required
The Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement (HELP) Program temporarily removes the civil service exam requirement for more than 100 direct care, health and human services titles across State agencies for a 12-month period. To be eligible for jobs in the HELP program, candidates must meet the jobs’ minimum qualifications and any other conditions of employment. Candidates should visit the HELP Jobs Portal and use the candidate portal to apply for jobs in the HELP program.
Check out HELP Jobs Portal here: https://www.cs.ny.gov/help/

Veterans Employment and Training Services (VETS) Resources for Veterans

The Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS) is committed to helping America's veterans and separating service members by preparing them for meaningful careers, providing employment resources and expertise, and protecting their employment rights.
https://www.benefits.gov/benefit/4624

FedEx Independent Service Provider
FedEx is looking to hire full time and part time drivers to deliver and pickup packages from Blauvelt, NY. Full time schedule is Monday – Friday and part time schedule has weekend positions available. Must be over 21 years old, have a clean drivers license, and be able to pass physical and drug tests. Background checks are also required. Salary for full time starts at $700 per week. Please contact 201-724-7781 to see if you qualify.

Office of Acquisition, Logistics, and Construction of the Veterans Administration:
The link below lists current positions have been announced for the Office of Acquisition, Logistics and Construction (OALC). This is not a complete listing of all Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) vacancies and may not include all positions announced for OALC. You may access VA recruitment information on the VA Jobs site at this link: https://www.va.gov/jobs/
If you wish copies of announcements listed below, please contact the individual identified in the specific announcement. Here is the link to the OALC Job Listings:
https://www.va.gov/oalc/career.asp

Montefiore-Nyack Hospital, Nyack, New York 10960
See link for full listing and information about career opportunities at Nyack Hospital, Nyack, New York. https://montefiorenyackcareers.org

Good Samaritan Hospital, Suffern, New York. Good Samaritan Hospital is affiliated with Westchester Medical Center. See this link for available employment - https://wmchealthjobs.org/search-jobs/

Rockland County Employment Information:
Here is a link to current job openings available in Rockland County
http://rocklandgov.com/departments/personnel/job-opportunities/

Rockland County Veterans' Credits:
http://rocklandgov.com/files/8115/1120/9567/Veterans_Credit_Info.pdf

New York City Civil Service Jobs, Tests, and Results as listed in The Chief:
http://thechiefleader.com/news/civil_service/

MTA Metro-North Railroad has ongoing employment opportunities:
To apply for current jobs with the MTA, please go to the MTA Employment Portal at: http://web.mta.info/mta/employment/

NYC Green Book Online: The Green Book is the official directory of the City of New York. An indispensable reference guide for anyone living or working in New York City. Includes detailed listings of agencies. Website: http://a856-gbol.nyc.gov/GBOLWebsite/

Rockland County Marine Corps League regularly receives donations of handicap assistance equipment for disabled veterans from people who want to help. The donated equipment is available for free to military veterans and their families. The items include the following:

Motorized Wheelchairs
Manual Wheelchairs
Oxygen Generator
Walkers
Bath Chairs
Transfer Benches
Braces
Crutches
Canes

If you have need of any of this equipment, contact John Leighton of the Rockland County Marine Corps League - 845-521-5361 or via email: jhleighton@att.net.

RockVets is an Outreach program of New York Vets, Inc., a 501 (c) 3 not-for-profit organization established in 1992, to advocate for those who have worn the uniform of the U.S. Military, no matter where or when they served.

The volunteers at New York Vets / RockVets publish this monthly e-newsletter. We welcome your thoughts, questions, and feedback. E-mail: NewYorkVets@gmail.com.

We are not affiliated with any government agency such as the Veterans Administration, Rockland County Government, nor the Veterans Service Agency of Rockland.

Each month, our newsletter reaches more than 1800 local veterans or those who care about veterans' interests. Please use this forum to let veterans know of any information, resources, links or events they might be beneficial to them. Send information to NewYorkVets@gmail.com or send us a note through our website: https://newyorkvets.org. Thank you for passing this newsletter along to other veterans or those who care.

Our Mailing Address
New York Vets, Inc. / RockVets
P.O. Box 387
Tomkins Cove, New York 10986

Pat McGlade
Co-Founder / Director
Website: http://newyorkvets.org
RockVets Newsletters: https://newyorkvets.org/newsletters
Email: NewYorkVets@gmail.com