Local Veterans’ Hall of Honor Ceremony

Assemblyman Brian Curran recently recognized veterans Col. Robert Schatz from Oceanside and Stephen D’Esposito from Island Park. Thanking the veterans for their service and patriotism to their country and community, Curran presented each honoree with a State Assembly proclamation.

In all 16 local vets were honored at the veterans’ hall of honor event at the St. Mary’s/Maris Stella Council #2228 Knights of Columbus in Lynbrook.

Robert Schatz, a World War II Veteran, was drafted at the age of 18 and began his training as a medical technician in addition to being trained in chemical warfare. He was sent to England to continue his training and became a member of General Patton’s 3rd Army in Northern France. He and the rest of the medical battalion were five miles behind the lines, where they waited to receive the casualties at the battalion aid station. Schatz’s commendable work as a part of the medical battalion also included aiding a train full of Hungarian Jewish refugees who had been liberated by the 30th Division. He played integral part in caring for these refugees and bringing them back to health. His battalion received four battle stars and a unit citation. Additionally, for his work, he received a commendation.

Schatz continued his work with the military on Long Island working with the New York Guard. He served as Deputy Commissioner in the Town of Hempstead Public Safety Department. He also worked as System Security Officer in the transportation section where he was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel. For his work, Schatz has been awarded the New York Guard Meritorious Service Medal and the New York Guard Service Bronze Medal.

Stephen D’Esposito enlisted in the United States Army in 1968 during the height of the Vietnam War, following his father’s footsteps, who served in combat in the Army during World War II. D’Esposito went through basic training at Fort Dix in New Jersey. Afterward he was stationed at Fort Eustis in Newport News, Virginia. He later earned the rank of Sergeant.