POUGHKEEPSIE, NY … Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino and the County’s Office of Veterans Affairs today celebrated U.S. Army Private James Crifo, a beloved East Fishkill resident who served during World War II, at the County’s most recent “Veteran of Distinction” ceremony, held at the Knights of Columbus St. Mary’s Council No. 4065 in Hopewell Junction.
Dutchess County Executive Serino said, “James’ life reflects courage, service and love of family. He answered his country’s call during World War II and survived unimaginable hardship as a prisoner of war. Yet James came home, built a beautiful life and devoted himself to his family. Through our ‘Veteran of Distinction’ program, Dutchess County celebrates James’ service, his strength and the lasting legacy he leaves through his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His story reminds us of the courage and sacrifice that helped shape our nation.”
James Crifo proudly served in the U.S. Army from Sept. 17, 1943 to Nov. 20, 1945, serving with the 101st Airborne Signal Company and providing critical communications support during World War II. James survived the Normandy invasion and later volunteered for service with gliders that quietly landed infantry, vehicles and heavy equipment directly behind enemy lines. During a mission from Belgium to Holland, his glider crash-landed in enemy territory, where he was captured and became a prisoner of war. He was held at Stalag VII, Germany’s largest P.O.W. camp, later transferred to a work camp and eventually liberated by American forces on May 4, 1945. Four years later, James married Elsie, with whom he spent 67 years together and raised four children. He is a proud father, grandfather and great grandfather with eight grandchildren and five great grandchildren.
Dutchess County Veterans Affairs Director Adam Roche said, “Private Crifo is a true American hero who personifies courage and sacrifice. He faced the dangers of combat and the perils of captivity as a P.O.W. Through it all, James remained committed to his country and his fellow soldiers, and Dutchess County is deeply grateful for his service and sacrifice.”
Monthly “Veteran of Distinction” ceremonies take place on the second Tuesday of each month from April through November, hosted in the community where the honored veteran resides.
Nomination Requirements
Nominees must meet the following criteria:
• Be a current Dutchess County resident
• Have served in the U.S. Armed Forces and received an honorable discharge
• Have served during wartime or peacetime; there are no restrictions on service dates or duration
How to Nominate
Applications may be submitted:
• Online: dutchessny.gov/veteranofdistinction
• In person: Dutchess County Office of Veterans Affairs, 1335 Route 44, Pleasant Valley, NY 12569
• By email: veterans@dutchessny.gov
All applications must include appropriate military separation documents (DD 214, WD AGO 53 55, NGB 22, or casualty report).
For more information, contact the Dutchess County Office of Veterans Affairs at 845 486 2060.
