In a solemn ceremony, Suffolk County Legislator Chad Lennon (LD-6) presented the flag he carried during his 66-mile walk from the Orient Fire Department to Armed Forces Plaza in Hauppauge.
Lennon, joined by local veterans and community members, completed the 25-hour trek carrying both the American Flag and the Suicide Awareness & Remembrance (SAR) Flag. The effort sought to highlight the mental health crisis and raise awareness of veteran suicide. The SAR Flag he carried was raised in a ceremony honoring veterans lost to suicide while offering support to their families.
Veterans Suicide Awareness & Remembrance Day is recognized annually in Suffolk County on September 22 through legislation sponsored by Lennon, passed by his colleagues, and signed into law by County Executive Ed Romaine.
“We started Saturday morning at 9 a.m. at the Orient Fire Department and went about 25 hours to Hauppauge with the American and SAR Flags,” said Lennon, recently promoted to lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps. “This flag was carried across Suffolk County as a symbol that we see the epidemic of veteran suicides, and we will not stand idly by. We can make a difference. We can break the stigma. And we will.”
The ceremony also honored Corporal Keith Anthony Miller, USMC (January 22, 1993 – September 1, 2015). His family was presented a SAR Flag in his memory. Air Force veteran Kevin Hertell, creator of the SAR Flag, served as master of ceremonies, emphasizing the mission to “break the stigma of mental health and seeking treatment within our warrior culture.”
The event drew county officials, lawmakers, and veterans organizations, including the VFW, Operation VEST, Warrior Ranch Foundation, and Paws of War. Assemblyman Steve Stern presented signed copies of his statewide SAR bill.
Lennon also serves with VFW Post 6249 and American Legion Post 1888.