Rockville Centre's Frank Colon honored for serving his country

Days before the nation celebrated its independence, Hempstead Town Supervisor Kate Murray presented awards to eight veterans, including Frank Colon from Rockville Centre. The town’s annual Salute to Veterans ceremony took place on June 30 at Point Lookout Town Park, presenting six with the 2012 Veterans Service Medal and two Montford Point Marines with the town’s Trailblazer Award.

“These dedicated men and women bravely served their country during times of war, and upon returning home, committed themselves to helping fellow veterans who needed medical care, basic supplies or help finding employment and housing,” said Murray. “These veterans sought nothing in return for their selfless acts. But, today, they receive the recognition they so rightfully deserve.”

Colon, a veteran of the United States Army, is the past commander of the North Bellmore American Legion Post No. 1749. He is active in many parade and event committees, and recently brought multiple groups together for one community-wide Memorial Day parade to pay homage to the fallen. He teaches students and faculty at local schools about patriotism and respect for the American flag, and lends a hand to the needy, homeless and hospitalized veterans. Frank is currently a member of the Town of Hempstead Veterans Committee.

Other Veterans Service Medal recipients were Lecia Rodriques-Whyte of Elmont; Tami Ellinport of Valley Stream; John Brady of Levittown; Frank Lowell Neal, Jr. of Hempstead and Stephen Nicolino of Freeport. The Trailblazer award went to Richard Warren of Roosevelt and Vincent Long Sr. of Hempstead for their service as original members of the legendary African-American Montford Point Marines. Ned Johnson was also posthumously honored.