Legislator Leslie Kennedy hosted the 3rd Annual Suffolk County Heroes Breakfast at the American Airpower Museum in Farmingdale.
The breakfast honored Police, Fire, EMS, veterans, military personnel, and community leaders.
On hand was the mother of Army Specialist Jacob Fletcher, who lost his life in Northern Iraq. Jacob enlisted following the 9/11 attacks on America. He was 28-years-old when he was killed more than 20 years ago. The 1994 Babylon High School graduate was killed when explosives rocked the bus he was driving on. Fletcher was one of the first Americans to land on Iraqi soil during that war, parachuting into a territory just north of Baghdad.
Jacob’s mother, Dorine Kenney, was on hand at the breakfast for the naming of the "Jacob’s Light Beacon of Hope Award," which is named after her son. The Award is given to individuals and organizations that have overcome tremendous hardships, and those who continue to strive to be a beacon of light for those in need.
This year, Kristina Moon and the Paws of War organization were honored. Kristina Moon is the President of the Billy Moon Foundation that was started after the passing of her husband, firefighter Billy Moon.
This foundation was created to honor Billy Moon’s memory for his selfless sacrifice to be both a first responder and organ donor. Also honored was the Paws of War organization which was founded in 2014 to honor and support veterans, active military members, and first responders. Paws of War offers services that enrich their lives through providing service and companion animals.
“Kristina Moon, wife of former FDNY firefighter Billy Moon, and Paws of War, represented by Ray Meyer, are excellent choices for this year’s Jacob’s Light Beacon of Hope Award. Both embody strength and dedication to public service. Kristina Moon and her children embody the wishes of their late husband and father who donated five organs to strangers, upon his death. Kristina has continued to advocate for organ donation throughout New York State. Meyer and Paws of War have continuously supported veterans, active military members, and first responders through providing service and companion animals for a decade,” said Legislator Kennedy.
"I am incredibly honored to recognize Kristina Moon and the Moon Family, and Paws of War for the Jacob's Light Humanitarian Award for their unwavering dedication to our community, our local Veterans and First Responders. Their compassionate efforts in supporting veterans and their families exemplify the spirit of service and generosity that this award represents. Kristina Moon, President of the Billy Moon Foundation, has shown remarkable resilience and dedication in her advocacy for organ donation and providing essential support to donor families in honor of her late husband, Billy Moon. Paws of War has made an extraordinary impact by rescuing animals and providing vital services to our veterans and first responders. Both are truly embodying the Beacon of Hope Award,” said Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin.
This event has been made possible for the past three years through the generosity of multiple organizations. Every year, the American Airpower Museum donates the space, the Bristal Assisted Living donates food and drinks, and Catholic Health partners with Legislator Kennedy’s office to help coordinate the Hero’s Breakfast.