POUGHKEEPSIE, NY – Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino and the County’s Office of Veterans Affairs honored the service and legacy of U.S. Marine Corps Lance Corporal Nicholas Gasparre, a former Town of Beekman resident, during today’s final “Honor-A-Veteran” ceremony of the year. Today’s tribute, held at the Dutchess County Law Enforcement Center in Poughkeepsie, was part of a monthly program honoring the lives and sacrifices of Dutchess County veterans who have passed away, celebrating the lasting impact they made on our nation and community.
Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino said, “In a life tragically cut all too short, Nick exemplified the word ‘service’ on several levels: first volunteering as a teenaged firefighter, then defending our nation in the Marines and finally protecting his neighbors as a Deputy Sheriff. Nick brought pride to his family, his local community and Dutchess County. We are privileged to recognize his enduring legacy of duty through our ‘Honor-A-Veteran’ program.”
Born on Aug. 22, 1988, Nicholas Gasparre began his life of service at the age of 14, becoming a volunteer firefighter with the Beekman Fire District. Driven by a deep sense of duty and a family tradition of military service, and inspired by the events of Sept. 11, 2001, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 2010, serving as an Air Support Operations Operator with MASS 1 at Cherry Point, NC. His role was vital, coordinating air support for ground troops, much like a battlefield 911 operator. Though a shoulder injury prevented him from deploying, he earned several commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, rising to the rank of Lance Corporal (LCpl.). His steadfast commitment to safeguarding was a defining characteristic of his military service and persisted throughout his civilian life.
In 2017, LCpl. Gasparre fulfilled his dream of becoming a deputy with the Dutchess County Sheriff's Office, where he was honored with the Meritorious Service and Patriot Awards. In 2021, LCpl. Gasparre married the love of his life, Kellie-Ann; the couple welcomed their daughter, Adelaide, in early 2024, and son Nicholas was born in 2025. Known for his humor and ability to connect with anyone, LCpl. Gasparre co-founded The League Hudson Valley, a local golf league for first responders. He was a devoted dog parent, a “Jurassic Park” enthusiast and a lover of acoustic guitar; and his playful spirit, kindness and loyalty continue to inspire through the lives he touched.
LCpl. Gasparre passed away on Nov. 15, 2024; read his obituary online.
Office of Veterans Affairs Director Adam Roche said, “Nick wasn’t just someone you knew; he was someone you felt. His presence filled a room with warmth, laughter and an unshakable sense that everything was going to be OK. He lived with purpose, served with pride and loved without hesitation. Whether Nick was in uniform, on the golf course or just hanging out with his beloved dogs, Gus and Rigatoni, he brought people together. Many of us throughout Dutchess County have coped with living without Nick over the past year, but knowing he lives on in the memories of Kellie-Ann, Adelaide, little Nick and the many people whose lives he touched makes each day a little easier.”
During today’s ceremony, County Executive Serino and Director Roche and members of the Dutchess County Honor-A-Veteran Committee presented LCpl. Gasparre’s family with several honors, including a:
While today’s event was the final “Honor-A-Veteran” event of the year, ceremonies will continue in 2026, from April to November. Family, friends and community members are encouraged to nominate a veteran to be recognized through the initiative. The deceased veterans must meet the following criteria:
Applications are available online at dutchessny.gov/honoraveteran or in person at the Dutchess County Office of Veterans Affairs, 1335 Route 44 in Pleasant Valley. All submitted applications must be accompanied by a copy of the veteran’s military separation papers (DD-214, WD AGO 53-55, NBG-22 or report of casualty), obituary and death certificate.
Completed applications can be submitted via email to veterans@dutchessny.gov or returned to the Office of Veterans Affairs in person; members of the Dutchess County Honor-A-Veteran Committee will review each application for consideration. More information is available by calling the County’s Office of Veterans Affairs at 845-486-2060.
