POUGHKEEPSIE ... Coinciding with the 251st birthday of the United States Navy, Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino and the County Office of Veterans Affairs today thanked Navy Seaman First Class (S1C) John E. Yurus, a decorated World War II veteran and venerable Town of Wappinger resident, for his military service and continued legacy at this month’s “Veteran of Distinction” ceremony at the Knights of Columbus St. Mary’s Council No. 4065 in Hopewell Junction.
Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino said, “John Yurus answered the call following one of the most difficult times in our country’s history, then he brought that same spirit of service back home as a civilian. After courageously serving during World War II, John devoted his life to his family, his faith and his community. From raising six children with his wife, Peggy, to his years in the American Legion, John has shown us that true service does not end when you take off the uniform. I’m so grateful we’re able to personally thank John for all he’s meant to our county and our country.”
Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, John E. Yurus enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 18, 1943, trained at Sampson Naval Training Base in New York and Piney Point in Maryland, and went on to serve as a torpedoman aboard the USS Hampton and USS Rawlins. During his service, S1C Yurus provided port security in the Philippines and earned the Asiatic-Pacific Medal, American Theatre Medal and Victory Medal. Following his honorable discharge in January 1946, he returning home after the war to build a life centered on family, faith and service. S1C Yurus and his wife, Peggy, raised six children, two of whom also served in the military, as well as nine grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. His commitment to serving others also continued through his longtime involvement with the American Legion, living a life of courage, sacrifice and devotion to his country and family.
Dutchess County Veterans Affairs Director Adam Roche said, “Despite knowing the perils that might await him, Seaman First Class Yurus made the selfless decision to put country above self, enlist in the Navy and defend our country’s freedom. That heroism was on display during World War II, as he protected foreign shores half a world away. S1C Yurus showed the bravery and sacrifice that military service commands, and Dutchess County is proud to recognize him through our ‘Veteran of Distinction’ program.”
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:
How to Nominate
Applications may be submitted:
All applications must include appropriate military separation documents (DD 214, WD AGO 53 55, NGB 22).
For more information, contact the Dutchess County Office of Veterans Affairs at 845-486-2060.
