For his military service, decades of teaching, and longstanding commitment to preserving the stories of America’s veterans, South Shore Press history columnist and “Fog of War and Humanity” host Richard Acritelli was recently inducted into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame by State Senator Anthony Palumbo.
The honor was presented during the Senate’s 2026 Veterans Hall of Fame ceremony, where Palumbo recognized Acritelli as the First Senate District’s inductee for his contributions to education, military history and veterans advocacy across Long Island.
“His passion for history and service to our veterans has helped shape our region for generations to come,” Palumbo said in announcing the recognition.
Acritelli, a Wading River resident, served in both the United States Army Reserve and the New York Air National Guard, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant. During his years of service, he hauled jet fuel, munitions and heavy materials throughout the East Coast while promoting physical fitness within his units.
Beyond the military, Acritelli has spent nearly 25 years teaching U.S. History and Government at Rocky Point High School, where he also serves as a coach, advisor and founder of several student leadership programs. He has additionally taught for 14 years as an adjunct professor at Suffolk County Community College and has designed graduate-level courses through the New York Center for Teacher Development.
Acritelli is also widely known for hosting the “Fog of War and Humanity” podcast series produced through the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County, as well as for writing the weekly “History Lessons” column for the South Shore Press.
Recently, he helped host the grand opening of the new wing of the VFW Post 6249 Military History Museum, an expanded exhibit space preserving military artifacts and the stories of veterans from Long Island and beyond.
Palumbo credited Acritelli as one of the driving forces behind the museum’s expansion and praised his continued efforts to educate future generations about military history and sacrifice.
“It was my privilege to induct Richard Acritelli for the New York State Senate’s Veterans Hall of Fame for his service to our nation, his continued support of our veterans, veteran organizations, and important efforts to expand the public’s knowledge and reverence for our veterans and military history,” Palumbo said.
Earlier this year, Acritelli was also honored by Humanity Matters TV with its Outstanding Host Award during the organization’s 250th podcast celebration.