New York State Department of Health Celebrates Those Who Served In the Armed Forces On Veterans Day

State's Four Veterans Homes to Host Events Honoring Veteran Residents

Events Include Reading and Presentation of Proclamation from Governor Hochul

ALBANY, N.Y. (November 10, 2023) – The New York State Department of Health celebrates those who served in the Armed Forces this Veterans Day. To honor veterans across New York, the state's four Veterans Homes—Batavia, Montrose, Oxford, and St. Albans—have events planned for residents, including readings of a Governor's Proclamation declaring November as Veterans Month and November 11 as Veterans Day in New York, guest speakers, a full Color Guard, and other presentations.

"On this Veterans Day, the Department of Health and all of New York extends our deepest thanks and gratitude to those who served in the United States Armed Forces," State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. "As a veteran of the U.S. Navy, I have a deep and personal understanding of what it means to put on the uniform and serve our country. I urge everyone to take a moment to thank a veteran today."

New York Veterans Homes Events:

St. Albans:

  • Saturday, November 11: Veterans Day programing starts at 10:30 a.m. and features a full Color Guard, a performance by the Peace of Heart Choir, a guest speaker, a presentation featuring a slide show of residents in uniform while on active duty as well as a "What I look like Now" photo, followed by a luncheon with live music.
  • Sunday, November 12: A special Veterans Day performance by the Lions Club starts at 2:30 p.m.

Oxford:

  • Saturday, November 11: The annual ceremony begins at 11 a.m. with invited speakers, a reading of the Governor's Proclamation and the singing of patriotic songs.

Batavia:

  • Saturday, November 11: A ceremony will take place outside by the local Post. A portion of the Governor's Proclamation will be read, and a prayer will take place, followed by a reception for families and residents.

Montrose:

  • Saturday, November 11: Regular programming in the morning, followed by a car show (weather permitting).

New York State Department of Veterans' Services Commissioner Viviana DeCohen said, "Veterans Day is a powerful reminder of the unwavering dedication and sacrifices made by our nation's heroes. We commend the Department of Health for commemorating this day at our state's Veterans Homes. These ceremonies serve as a heartfelt tribute to the brave individuals who have selflessly served our country. We extend our deepest gratitude to all veterans and their families, and we are committed to providing them the support and respect they so rightfully deserve."

More information on the New York State Veterans Homes can be found here.

Veterans seeking information on health care benefits, plus details on the NYS Veterans Mobile App, which can connect New York veterans and their family members to jobs, housing, education, and other programs, visit the Department's Veterans Health webpage here.

Veterans can also access the state's Veterans Health Information Clearing House for a list of resources for veterans, their families, and their health care providers. These resources can help veterans who are seeking information on illnesses that may be service-connected, and facilities that may be able to provide health care services.