POUGHKEEPSIE ... Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino today expressed her personal gratitude and Dutchess County’s collective appreciation to First Lieutenant Henry Bialosuknia, as she and the County’s Office of Veterans Affairs hosted this month’s “Veteran of Distinction” ceremony. The gathering paid tribute to First Lieutenant Bialosuknia, a Poughkeepsie native and decorated U.S. Army veteran who served in Vietnam, for his military service and contributions to his community. This month’s “Veteran of Distinction” observance was part of the County’s Veterans Appreciation Day & Resource Fair, held at the Henry A. Wallace Visitor and Education Center in Hyde Park.
Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino said, “Henry Bialosuknia isn’t just a true American hero and a decorated Vietnam veteran—he’s a dear neighbor and longtime friend right here in our Salt Point community. We all owe Henry, and heroes like him, a debt we can never fully repay. Seeing him come home, raise a wonderful family, and continue to pour his heart into Dutchess County, is just so special. I’m so excited to gather with our local veterans and their families at the Wallace Center to proudly recognize Henry as our November ‘Veteran of Distinction.’ It is an absolute honor to celebrate him!”
Born and raised in Poughkeepsie, U.S. Army 1st Lieutenant Henry Bialosuknia served in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne Division, leading infantrymen through numerous combat operations. His bravery and leadership earned him several military honors, including the Silver Star, Bronze Star with “V” Device for valor and Purple Heart. Following his honorable discharge, he returned to IBM, where he enjoyed a successful 39-year career as a computer programmer before retiring in 2006. He and his wife, Nancy, raised three children and are proud grandparents of eight.
Dutchess County Veterans Affairs Director Adam Roche said, “Henry Bialosuknia is a true American hero who served our country. Dutchess County is proud to recognize all he has accomplished, both in uniform and here in our community. On behalf of our Veterans Services team, thank you, Henry, for all you have given our country.”
Today’s Veterans Appreciation Day & Resource Fair brought veterans from throughout Dutchess County and their families together to honor their service and learn about support services and resources offered by more than 20 local organizations.
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. Ceremonies will resume in April 2027.
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).
Dutchess County continues to show its appreciation to local veterans this month, as County Executive Serino and Veterans Affairs invite residents to join them on Wednesday, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m. to honor the brave men and women who have worn our nation’s uniform. The County’s annual Veterans Day ceremony, held at the Dutchess County War Memorial in Poughkeepsie, offers an opportunity for the community to stand united in gratitude for the courage, service and sacrifice of the Americans who have defended our country and protected our freedoms.
For more information, contact the Dutchess County Office of Veterans Affairs at 845-486-2060.
