Suffolk County celebrated a proud and patriotic milestone as young men and women raised their right hands and took the oath to serve in the United States military during a special ceremony attended by families, veterans, and local leaders.
Distinguished guests included County Executive Ed Romaine, Legislator Nick Caracappa, Legislator Sam Gonzalez, Legislator Leslie Kennedy, a representative from Chad Lennon’s office, Stephanie Stafford, Chris Preo, James Calefati, Comptroller John M. Kennedy Jr., and Legislator Jim Mazzarella.
Additional acknowledgments included the Blue Star Mothers of America, the Long Island State Veterans Home, and the Suffolk County Police Department.
“This is a great day,” Romaine said. “This is a day when young people say, ‘I’ll serve my country.’”
Romaine added, “There is no higher calling than serving your country,” praising the recruits’ courage.
Retired aide Steve Capleton reminded enlistees, “You are continuing that tradition,” urging them to grow through service.
Keynote speaker Colonel James C. Brennan emphasized, “We take an oath to an idea,” calling it a commitment to freedom, justice, and equality.
Brennan told recruits, “A year from now, you will be in very different places,” adding, “You are all service members, defending your families and their way of life.”
He urged, “Bloom where you’re planted,” noting that “strong people grow in rocky soil” and encouraging them to lead and seize opportunity.
Addressing families, Brennan said, “Your support and dedication is essential,” recalling, “Getting a piece of mail from loved ones meant everything.”
As applause filled the room, recruits stood beside loved ones, embodying a tradition of sacrifice, opportunity, and unwavering national pride.
The ceremony highlighted Suffolk’s deep military heritage and reinforced Romaine’s promise, “When you return, come home to Suffolk,” a message met with cheers and visible emotion throughout the gathering hall that morning in tribute to service and duty.