Veteran Kathleen Vigiano was recently honored for her extraordinary dedication, courage, and lifelong commitment to service, including her work with the U.S. Navy, New York City Police Department, and Suffolk County communities.
The recognition came during a ceremony hosted by State Assemblyman Joe DeStefano, who praised the Nissequogue resident as “a role model whose steadfast service and principled leadership have strengthened our communities and inspired generations of families, first responders, and volunteers.”
Vigiano, a Sachem High School alumna (Class of 1981), attended Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University before enlisting in the U.S. Navy in 1982. She served as an aircraft mechanic with assignments at NAS Patuxent River and Patrol Squadron VP-68 at Andrews Air Force Base, reenlisting twice in the Navy Reserves. She later dedicated 20 years as a New York City Police Officer from 1987 to 2007. During that time, she stood alongside her husband, the late Detective Joseph Vigiano, who was killed in the line of duty on September 11, 2001.
A devoted mother and grandmother, Vigiano celebrates her children—Joseph, Jimmy, and John, who serves in the U.S. Marine Corps—and her grandchildren, Joseph and Jacquelin. Originally from Medford, she has remained focused on family and community throughout her life.
Vigiano has demonstrated uncommon courage and integrity through volunteerism, including her work with Survivors of the Shield, where she served as President and helped uncover charity fraud that led to federal prosecution and restitution. Continuing her dedication to helping others, she trained to become an Emergency Medical Technician at age 60 and volunteers with the Nissequogue Volunteer Ambulance Company.
Assemblyman DeStefano recognized Vigiano for her exemplary military service, role as a Gold Star family member, leadership with Survivors of the Shield, and ongoing volunteer work as an EMT, calling her life “a testament to duty, integrity, and love of community.”