Pictured (left to right) are: Francis L. Giordano, Past New York State Commander, American Legion; Edward J. Cush, Chairman, Memorial Day Parade of Kings County; Thompson; Helene Van Clief, Commander, Jewish War Veterans, Post No. 3, The Bronx; Carlton Richardson, Commander, Canarsie American Legion Post No. 573 and Vice Commander, County American Legion; Sgt. Louis Licalzi, U. S. Army Reserves (Event Co-sponsor); and Greg Kelly, Washington Correspondent, Fox News Channel. Photo credit: Marla Maritzer.

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New York City Comptroller William C. Thompson, Jr. paid tribute to five New Yorkers at his Veterans Recognition event on Wednesday, November 30, 2004. The event was co-sponsored by the Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum, American Legion of the State of New York and the United Spinal Association.

“The men and women honored at this event have made extraordinary contributions to our city and nation. They are role models and leaders who have set new standards for excellence,” Thompson stated. “We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to those who have served and those currently serving our country to defend the cause of freedom.”

During the ceremony, the Comptroller thanked New Yorkers for generously donating to his Military Food and Supplies Drive, which was launched in early November. The donations will be shipped to the troops in time for the holidays.

“My office has received boxes and boxes of supplies for our troops. Sending aid is our way of thanking them for their courage and bravery,” Thompson said to the crowd of 100 people.

The distinguished honorees at the Comptroller’s third annual event were:

• Edward J. Cush , Chairman, Memorial Day Parade of Kings County. Mr. Cush is the business Manager Emeritus of Ironworkers Local 361, and serves as the Chairman of the Ironworkers’ Security Funds for Locals 40, 361, and 417.

• Francis L. Giordano , Past New York State Commander, American Legion. Mr. Giordano is also President of the Kings County American Legion Youth Recreational Facilities organization, where he was instrumental in creating a 35-acre ball field in Canarsie, Brooklyn.

• Greg Kelly , Washington Correspondent, Fox News Channel. Mr. Kelly provided extensive coverage of Operation Iraqi Freedom and was embedded with the United States Army’s 3 rd Infantry Division, 2 nd Brigade. He is also served as a fighter jet pilot in the U.S. Marine Corps for 9 years.

• Carlton Richardson , Commander, Canarsie American Legion Post No. 573 and Vice Commander, Kings County American Legion. Mr. Richardson also serves as the Chairman of the Canarsie Memorial Day parade Committee and is a member of the Marine Corps League and Disabled American Veterans.