'Operation Forever Grateful' to Honor Younger Vets

Each and serves as a reminder of the individuals who serve and protect - and the many who give their lives in the process - for the United States in uniform.

This year, Riverhead will have another opportunity to recognize some of its vets in a public setting.

Dubbed "Operation Forever Grateful," on March 10, veterans who have served since the Persian Gulf War are being recognized for their service, with a dinner and formal recognition from local elected officials - as well as those in attendance.

The event, slated for the from 5 to 10 p.m. that Saturday, is suited to seat 300. It's open to members of the public, and individuals can sponsor a veteran's dinner as well. All seats are $27.75.

Councilman John Dunleavy, Town Board Coordinator Linda Hulse and Liz Stokes, the head of circulation at the Riverhead Free Library, are organizing the event. 

"They're protecting us over there. We should welcome these people home," said Dunleavy, a Navy veteran. "Two-thirds are coming back maimed or with something wrong with them. This is the best country to live in, and the only reason is because we have people who serve us."

Hulse - whose father was in the Navy and husband was a Green Beret - said the organizers have heard some negative feedback for not recognizing all veterans at the event. But she said there are over 2,500 veterans' exemptions in the Town of Riverhead, so opening it up to all wouldn't be feasible, at least at this point.

"We have to start somewhere," she said. "I wish whoever feels that we're leaving people out would contact us, because who's to say we couldn't do one for them at a later date?"

Richie Friscia, Sr. Vice Commander of the Riverhead Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2476, agreed with Hulse.

Friscia said that Stokes came and spoke with the VFW personally, and he purchased a ticket to support his fellow veterans, as did several other members of the VFW who served prior to the Persian Gulf War.

"To me, if you're honoring veterans from wherever, I'm happy to be a part of that," he said. "Everybody gets their day."

People interested in purchasing tickets can call Linda Hulse at 727-3200 ext. 253, or call Liz Stokes at 631-655-3263.