Latest News
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Monday, December 15, 2025
Reservation Deadline for Mid-Winter Conference Is Jan. 5
Deadline for registration, hotel reservation, vouchers, and dinner reservations is Jan. 5.
See below for the updated tentative agenda and see the Mid-Winter Conference page for other necessary information. The conference takes place Jan. 16-18 at the Crowne Plaza-Desmond Hotel in Albany.
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Tuesday, November 04, 2025
Veterans Form the Bedrock of Our Freedom
By John R. Miga
Department Commander
The American Legion Department of New York
John R Miga
On this Veterans Day, we pause with reverence to honor the men and women who have worn the uniform of our nation. Their courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to duty form the bedrock of our freedom.
From the windswept battlefields of distant lands to the quiet strength of those who served at home, every veteran has carried the weight of liberty on their shoulders. They are not just defenders of our country—they are stewards of its ideals.
Here in New York, we are privileged to witness the enduring legacy of service. In our communities, our posts, and our homes, veterans continue to lead, inspire, and serve. Whether mentoring youth, responding to disasters, or standing watch at memorials, their devotion never wavers.
As Commander of the Department of New York, I am humbled by the honor of representing such extraordinary individuals. I pledge that the American Legion will remain steadfast in its mission: to advocate for veterans, preserve our history, and uphold the values that make this nation great.
Let us remember that honoring veterans is not confined to a single day. It is a lifelong commitment—reflected in how we care for those who served, how we teach future generations, and how we live as citizens worthy of their sacrifice.
To every veteran: thank you. Your service is remembered, your legacy cherished, and your example followed.
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Monday, October 27, 2025
Tops Markets Offer Vets Day Discount
On Tuesday, November 11, Tops Friendly Markets will once again offer an 11 percent discount off a total order to all veterans and their immediate family members who shop at any Tops location. Customers should present proof of service that they, or a family member living in the same household, are a U.S. veteran, active duty, reserve or retired military personnel to automatically receive an 11 percent discount off of their total purchase that day.
“Throughout the year we recognize the service of the men and women who fought and continue to fight for our country’s freedom,” noted Tops President Ron Ferri. “On Veterans Day, we are especially reminded of their bravery, heroism and we honor their contributions.”
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Friday, September 05, 2025
Owego Post 401 Has a Winning Foursome
The first place team from Owego Post 401
The Department’s 33rd Annual Legion Family Golf Tournament was held at Maple Hill Golf Club in Marathon NY on Friday, August 1, 2025.
Department Golf Chairman Auseklis G. Krumins reported that 15 teams participated this year.
“The weather this year was perfect, making for any enjoyable day,” he noted.
This year’s first place team was from Post 401 in Owego, captained by Steve Livermore.
Second place went to Tom Hurlbut’s team from Post 974 in Whitney Point.
Third place went to William Buckley’s team from Post 973 in South Otselic, NY.
Longest drive for men went to Nick Rollins and longest drive for women was hit by Margaret Sweredoski from Post 162 in Lowville, NY. Closest to the pin for men was hit by Marty Drum from Post 1645 in Binghamton, NY.
The prize for Most Honest Team was awarded to Scott Diskin’s team from Post 42 in Chatham, NY. which included Past Department Commander Keith Koster from Saratoga County.
“Congratulations to all Prize winners!” Chairman Krumins said, adding that he hopes to see even more teams participate next year on August 7, 2026 “in this simply fun day of golf for all Legion Family members.”
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Wednesday, September 03, 2025
Sweepstakes Winners
2025 Winners in The American Legion Annual Sweepstakes, announced during the Department of New York Convention:
• Lawrence Clabeaux, Buffalo – $5,000
• Nunzio Esposito, West Seneca – $2,500
• James Beecher, North Babylon – $1,000
• William Marquart, Albany – $500
• Louis Via, Saugerties – $500
• Peter Terrasi, New Windsor – $500
• Clifton Dexter, Knoxville – $500
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Tuesday, August 05, 2025
WWII Vets Helped Kick Off Department Convention
104-year-old Tony Pircio with 20224-2025 Department Commander Keith Koster.
A four-hour marathon session kicked off the 107th Annual Convention of the NYS American Legion on Thursday, July 17 at the Mariott Syracuse Downtown, formerly the Hotel Syracuse.
Highlighting the initial moments was a standing ovation for two centenarians from the Greatest Generation of military men, as outgoing Department Commander Keith Koster introduced 102 year-old Addison Sheckler of Cato and 104 year-old Tony Pircio of Manlius.
