By Assemblyman Al Stirpe
(Syracuse, NY – Nov. 2015) Each year, I join Central New Yorkers on Veterans Day to honor those who bravely risked everything in defense of our country. These ceremonies are an important way to thank our veterans and military families for their service, but I want them to know that they have a voice in state government all year — not just one day in November. The members of our armed forces put it all on the line for us, so it’s our responsibility to support them when they come home.
New York State is home to nearly 900,000 veterans, and more than 30,000 live right here in Onondaga County. Unfortunately, according to the federal Department of Veterans Affairs, about half of all post-9/11 service members have gone through a period of unemployment since returning home and veterans make up 12 percent of the adult homeless population.
Clearly, the transition back to civilian life can be difficult for veterans. That’s why I voted for laws to help ensure jobs will be waiting for them when they return by providing tax credits to small businesses who hire veterans (Ch. 59 of 2013) and establishing the Veterans Employment Act to help them find temporary staffing jobs in state agencies (Ch. 557 of 2013). These measures are helping to grow our economy while at the same time supporting military families.
We’re making progress locally, as well. The Syracuse Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) is the first national center of higher education for veterans. It provides many programs to help veterans learn new skills and open their own businesses, helping them succeed post-service. I visited the IVMF recently and was so impressed with the individuals who work every day to help veterans find success after service.
Though we should always remember to thank our veterans, Nov. 11 serves as an annual reminder. There are many memorials and parades taking place in our community to honor our heroes. Please consider attending one of the following events to show your support:
* The 8th annual Veterans Parade at the state fairgrounds will be held on Nov. 7 at noon, with other events from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
* The Great Northern Mall will host a dedication ceremony for the “Flags of Honor and Gratitude” at the flag display site on Nov. 8 at 10 a.m.
* A public Veterans Day Observance will be held at the Onondaga County War Memorial in downtown Syracuse on Nov. 11 at 10 a.m.
As long as there are those willing to step up and fight for our country, there must also be those back home willing to assist when they return. If I can do anything to help make life easier for our veterans or help with any other issue, please feel free to contact me at StirpeA@assembly.state.ny.us or by calling 452-1115.