In honor of Memorial Day, Councilwoman Cyndi McNamara unveiled this year’s Hometown Heroes.  The program, spearheaded by Councilwoman McNamara and Westhampton VFW Post 5350, aims to recognize and honor our local military men and women by displaying personalized banners with their picture and military service information in Good Ground Park in Hampton Bays.  At either end of the park, there is a QR code that links to a webpage where you can either read or listen to the stories of those being honored.

“Having the ability to support and honor our veterans is one of the greatest aspects of my job,” stated Councilwoman McNamara, liaison to the Veterans Affairs Committee.  “This year, I was proud to honor my grandfather, Anthony Graneri, a Bronze Star recipient who served in WWII, Korea and Vietnam.  He served for 22 years before retiring from the air Force from his last post at Suffolk County Air Force Base Westhampton Beach.  He is my hero.” 

Bill Hughes Commander of VFW Post 5350 and Chair of the Veterans Affairs Committee stated, “Veterans’ family and friends are proud and honored to share their military experience with those who visit Good Ground Park.  Because of the great work by Southampton Town employees, each banner tells the veteran's story by scanning the QR code displayed in the park. Sharing the veteran experience is at times difficult, and is different in each case, but almost all are proud of the service and sacrifice given to keep our nation strong and free.”

A portion of the proceeds from the purchase of the banner is administered by Westhampton VFW Post 5350 to benefit local veterans’ organizations or to assist families with a banner purchase.  

The banner program will run from Memorial Day through Veterans Day at Good Ground Park located at 9A Squiretown Road in Hampton Bays. All sponsors will keep their banners at the end of the program period.

PHOTO GALLERY