PHOTO: Vets and grateful members of the community at a recent Veterans’ BBQ. State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. is gearing up for this year’s event on Aug. 29. File Photo
State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Howard Beach) is set to host his 7th annual Veterans’ BBQ to honor area service members on Saturday, Aug. 29, outside his Howard Beach district office.
Addabbo, the ranking member on the Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs Committee, said he organizes the event each summer to show appreciation and pay tribute to those who have served the country. The BBQ typically attracts over 100 veterans, spanning all ages and generations, from every branch of the military, according to Addabbo.
“The men and women who have courageously served in the United States military have made sacrifices, and have shown great dedication and commitment for the sake of our nation, and it is important that we show them gratitude in every way possible,” Addabbo said. “Our veterans fought to protect our freedom and our way of life, and should forever be celebrated as the heroes they truly are. My annual Veterans’ BBQ is my way of expressing my appreciation for their service and of bringing together veterans to further their interaction with one another and develop a strong support system of fellow service members who share a bond that only they can understand.”
The BBQ will feature free food for the guests and their families, consisting of traditional cookout fare such as hamburgers, hot dogs and salads. There will also be live music.
“This event gives me an amazing opportunity to personally thank each and every one of the veterans who attends and to hear remarkable stories from each individual about their days of service,” Addabbo added.
Addabbo also thanked the area businesses, food merchants and retailers that contribute to the annual event.
The BBQ will be held from 12 to 3 pm at the corner of 102nd Street and 160th Avenue. For more information, contact Pat McCabe at (718) 738-1111.
By Forum Staff
