Curran inducts local veterans into NYS Veterans' Hall of Honor

Assemblyman Brian Curran (Lynbrook-21st AD) recently honored John Madson, Sr., John Barry, and Eugene Clark III, all of Rockville Centre, at his third annual Veterans’ Hall of Honor.

The event was held at St. Mary’s/Maris Stella Council #2228 Knights of Columbus in Lynbrook, and each veteran was inducted by Assemblyman Curran into the Hall of Honor.

Friends and family members of the veterans gathered to celebrate their recognition.  Thanking the veterans for their service and patriotism to their country and community, Curran presented 15 honorees with a New York State Proclamation on this achievement.

John Madson Sr. served in the Navy during World War II and was stationed at Pearl Harbor to install safety devices he invented while stationed at the Brooklyn Navy Yards.  Immediately after receiving a US Patent for his invention, Madson sold it to the government for $1.00 and no future royalties. Madson said he did this for the “war effort.”  He later participated in the invasions of Iwo Jima, Chichi Jima, and Okinawa; and finally the occupation of Japan.  John Madson is an active member of the East Rockaway Veterans Post 3350, serving as a delegate, and can often be found at Green Acres Shopping Mall with the VFW Poppies.

Eugene Clark was stationed in the US, Turkey, and Vietnam to support military Air Operations as part of the Air Force and stays involved with the American Legion, NYS Veterans of the Vietnam War and the VA Hospital in Northport.

Colonel Jack Barry's experience in Army operations in Vietnam prepared him for various leadership positions in the armed services. He retired from duty in 2000.

"This was a special event that gave our community the opportunity to celebrate the brave men and women who have sacrificed so much to ensure our freedoms and our way of life.  We owe everything that we enjoy today to those who answered the call to serve their country and each of our veterans deserves our gratitude and respect. This recognition is but a small token of appreciation for everything that they have achieved for this great nation and its citizens," said Assemblyman Brian Curran