Veterans named to Hall of Honor

Assemblyman Brian Curran honored 16 local veterans at a Veterans’ Hall of Honor at noon on Nov. 1 at the St. Mary’s/Maris Stella Council #2228 Knights of Columbus in Lynbrook.

Every year, Curran invites and recognizes several veterans from the area with a special ceremony, thanking them for their service and patriotism to their country and community.

“This special event offers 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,” said Curran. “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.”

The recipient from Baldwin, Alan Barish, is a Korean War veteran. At 18 years old, Barish said goodbye to his mom, dad, and sister and found himself in Korea as a proud member of the United States Army, 25th Division, and 27th Regiment. He was charged with protecting the headquarters for the general.

When legendary movie star Marilyn Monroe visited the serviceman in Korea in 1953, Barish was asked to escort her to several areas to meet, and help lift the spirits of the serviceman. Barish also had an article he wrote on behalf of the troops published in the New York Times.

Barish had a distinguished career in the Army, and resides in Baldwin today with his wife Geri and his son. He was unable to attend the ceremony, so Geri accepted the award on his behalf.