Several residents have been recognized for their outstanding service.
Buffalo Soldiers Award
The Buffalo Soldiers Award is presented each year to remarkable African American veterans, reminiscent of the revered nickname given to members of the first African American cavalry regiments of the US Army.
Staff Sgt. Sherlie Louis, recipient of this year’s Buffalo Soldiers Award, joined the Air Force in 2012 and is currently an aerospace medical services craftsman in the Air National Guard while pursuing a registered nursing career.
Lee Edward Burns, Sr., also a 2023 recipient, served in the US Army from 1962 to 1965 before joining the NY Army National Guard, where he served for over 30 years.
Army Achievement Medal
Lt. Cmdr. Nick Rausa, a West Nyack resident, was awarded the Army Achievement Medal for his work in organizing a considerable trip to the US Supreme Court. He joined the US Navy 14 years ago and serves at the Navy Judge Advocate General’s Corps.
Freedom Award
The 2023 Freedom Award was presented to Dr. Abigaile Taylor. She served as a human resources clerk in the US Army for 10 years, then managed the Yellow Ribbon Program for 3 years to ensure thousands of soldiers and families received proper training, education, and employment opportunities.
Photos come courtesy of Rockland County and Navy Office of Community Outreach
