State sen. Elaine Phillips honored U.S. Navy veteran Ralph Esposito of Elmont for his distinguished military career and commitment to providing necessary services to veterans on Tuesday.
Joined by his wife, Joanna, Esposito was inducted into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame, which highlights the service of a veteran from each Senate District, during a special ceremony at the State Capitol today.
“Ralph Esposito embodies what it means to be an American hero – from his service in the Navy and dedication to the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars, to his time Director of the Nassau County Veteran Service Agency,” Phillips said. “Ralph’s selfless devotion to improving the lives of his fellow service members and caring for their loved ones is truly outstanding. It is an honor to recognize Ralph for his distinguished career and endless commitment to ensuring fellow veterans receive the care and help they deserve.”
Esposito enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1961 and served on the USS Ticonderoga CVA 14, Division V4, and was honorably discharged from the Navy in 1964. A lifelong public servant, Espostio is a 53-year member of the American Legion and a 44-year member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, working daily to protect and serve others.
He has also received the “Kind Person Who Cares” Award from the United States Marine Corps. for his work in the renowned Toys for Tots donation drive, the “Humanitarian of the Year” Award by the Thomas A. Bennet Foundation, and the “Honorable Community Service” Award from the Gateway Christian Center.
In 2014, he was named Director of the Nassau County Veteran Service Agency where he works to empower, educate and provide essential services to veterans within and beyond the bounds of Nassau County.
“Ralph has not just answered the call to serve his nation and defend our freedom, he has dedicated his life to ensuring our American heroes are cared for,” Phillips said. “Thank you to Ralph Esposito for your lifetime of service, your tremendous dedication and your unwavering commitment to helping those around you.”
Esposito has lived in Elmont with his wife, Joanna, of 46 years since 1974. He is a proud father of two sons, John and Michael, and is a grandfather of two granddaughters and two grandsons.
