Congratulations Greg and Denise
Edwin Cartoski, 2023 NYS Veteran of the Year
On May 12th I represented the Post at Peconic Landing honoring resident Edwin Cartoski who was being honored as New York State 2023 Veteran of the Year. The recognition was presented by Senator Anthony Palumbo and organized by VFW Post 5350. Myself and Adjunct Brian Hughes congratulated 99 year old Colonel Cartoski and presented him a Challenge coin from the Sons of the Legion.
His military record is amazing! Born in Quiogue, he graduated early from Westhampton Beach High School in 1942, in order to enlist in the Navy and help with the war effort. After training in the Navy V-5 pilots program, he became 2nd Lt. Marine Pilot- flew Corsairs, Hellcats on delivery and test runs. He served on missions for Admiral "Bull" Halsey including service in the Pacific Theater. After the war he returned home and attending College on the GI bill but was called upon to serve again in the Korean War. Flying air support for the 1st Marines he still recalls with emotion being surrounded by enemy forces of China and North Korea during an ambush. He retired from the Marine Corps in 1974 as a Colonel.
With an impressive amount of fruit salad (Military ribbons) on his uniform, and Awards too numerous to list, he resumed civilian life with his family as a test pilot for Grumman before retirement in 1983. During it all Mr. Cartoski and his wife Althea raised five children.
Congratulations on this well deserved recognition as NYS Veteran of the Year!
Gary Iorio, SAL Commander
4th of July
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Bar Renovation
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