Families of fallen service members gathered alongside veterans, elected officials, and community leaders Monday at the New York State Veterans Cemetery–Finger Lakes in Romulus for a Memorial Day ceremony focused on remembrance, sacrifice, and the enduring legacy of military service in the region.
The observance, organized by the New York State Department of Veterans’ Services, included a Purple Heart Roll Call of Honor recognizing 34 Purple Heart recipients buried at the cemetery. Family members received state legislative resolutions honoring the courage and sacrifice of their loved ones during the ceremony.
Officials also paid tribute to veterans connected to the former Sampson Naval Training Station and Sampson Air Force Base, both of which played major roles in the Finger Lakes region during the 20th century. The event featured military honors by the Ovid VFW/American Legion Honor Guard and a presentation of a VA Memorial Wreath.
Speakers included DVS Executive Deputy Commissioner Joel Evans, former state Sen. Michael Nozzolio, DVS General Counsel Jonathan Fishbein, cemetery director Bill Yale, Deputy Counsel Benjamin Pomerance, state Sen. Tom O’Mara, and Assemblymembers Phil Palmesano and Jeff Gallahan.
The ceremony also included special recognition for World War II Sampson Navy veteran Lloyd Evans and Sampson Air Force veteran Dr. Ken Padgett.
Before the Memorial Day observance began, officials held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the cemetery’s new columbarium and maintenance building, additions state officials said will help preserve and support the site for future generations.
The New York State Veterans Cemetery–Finger Lakes, located on the former Sampson military base property along Seneca Lake, serves as a final resting place for veterans and eligible family members from across the region.
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