POUGHKEEPSIE, NY – Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino and the Dutchess County Office of Veterans Affairs hosted the County’s most recent “Honor-A-Veteran” Ceremony today, recognizing the late Raymond J. Turner, an esteemed U.S. Air Force veteran and respected Town of Poughkeepsie resident. The event, held at American Legion Post 1302 in Poughkeepsie, was the most recent in a series of monthly ceremonies hosted by the County Executive to highlight the lives and distinguished service of local veterans who have passed away.
Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino said, “Raymond Turner lived a life full of heart – from serving our nation oversees to building a beautiful life here at home with his Muriel and their seven children. He was known as ‘the last great salesman,’ a man with a natural charisma and warmth that allowed him to connect with just about anyone. It’s an honor to help share his story through our Honor-A-Veteran program and to ensure veterans like Raymond are remembered not only for their service, but for who they were to the people who loved them.”
Born Jan. 19, 1932, in Troy, NY, Mr. Turner proudly served in the United States Air Force as an Airman during the Korean War, stationed in Tachikawa, Japan as a teletype and radio operator, earning him the Korean Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal and the United Nations Service Medal, recognitions of his contributions and sacrifice.
After his military service, Airman Turner built a career with Western Union, where fate led him to Muriel, the love of his life and his devoted wife of 56 years. Together, they raised seven children who became the heart of their shared journey. His legacy flourished through 13 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Airman Turner passed away Dec. 14, 2011; read Airman Turner’s obituary online.
Office of Veterans Affairs Director Adam Roche said, “A selfless airman who defended our nation’s freedom half a world away, Airman Turner returned home following his service to build a life devoted to his family. By his example, he taught his loved ones how to embrace life fully, pursue their goals, push through challenges and turn dreams into reality – ideals emblematic of a model service member and an exemplary citizen. Dutchess County will long remember Airman Turner, his service and the strength and compassion he showed all who knew him.”
During today’s ceremony, County Executive Serino and Director Roche and members of the Dutchess County Honor-A-Veteran Committee presented Airman Turner’s family with several honors, including a:
Monthly “Honor-A-Veteran” ceremonies will continue through November, dedicated to honoring deceased veterans for their service to their nation. Future ceremonies will take place at 9 a.m. on or about the third Thursday of each month.
To be eligible for this initiative, veterans must meet the following criteria:
Family, friends and community members are encouraged to nominate a veteran to be recognized through the “Honor-A-Veteran” initiative. Applications for the program 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.
