Westchester County Executive George Latimer marked the 80th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor by honoring three local World War II veterans.
View the Proclamation ceremony.
Latimer said: “These men are the last of our greatest generation. We honor their sacrifice, we honor their service, and we honor their history. Without their dedication to patriotism and our nation, we would be in a different place in time. We must not forget what they stood for and what they fought for.”
Westchester County Director of Veterans Services Ronald Tocci said: “I encourage all Westchester residents to take a minute and thank their local veterans. Today’s recognition is a constant reminder of all these unsung heroes that we have in our midst and in our communities.”
Proclamations were handed out to:
Leroy Fadem of New Rochelle. At 100 years old, Fadem is a Navy veteran who served on the U.S.S. Stevens. He earned the moniker “Fearless Fadem” when he served as a torpedo officer, gunnery officer and catapult officer.
Fadem said: “I think most of us weren’t even aware of where Pearl Harbor was, until Pearl Harbor was bombed. This is the day that started it all. I wanted to select where I wanted to go. I selected the Navy. It was a life changer.”
Waldie Gullen of Waccabuc was drafted by the United States Army after graduating Katonah High School. He participated in the Battle of the Bulge with the 70th Infantry division known as “The Trail Blazers.” Gullen is 97 years old.
Gullen said: “I remember when the attack happened. I think about them [my comrades] every day.”
Daniel Sant of Goldens Bridge was drafted by the United States Army in 1944 and trained with the 77th Infantry Division, serving in Headquarters Company S-2, Regimental Army Intelligence. Sant is 95 years old.
Sant said: “It’s a privilege being here. Serving my country, was the greatest experience of my life.”