More than 50 veterans gathered at Carmel VFW Post 1374 on Tuesday, June 9, for a Veterans Advisory Council meeting hosted by state Sen. Pete Harckham, where discussion focused on state funding, veterans benefits and services available to former military personnel and their families.
Harckham updated attendees on legislation and budget initiatives approved in the 2026-27 state budget that are intended to support veterans across New York.
“It’s important to hear the veterans’ perspectives on the many issues that concern them, which is the point of holding these advisory council meetings,” Harckham said. “We will continue collaborating with our veterans to find solutions that will benefit our communities and help ensure veterans receive the benefits they have earned with their courage and sacrifice.”
The senator noted that one recently enacted law aimed at helping veterans receive benefits when admitted to hospitals or healthcare facilities originated from a suggestion made during a previous advisory council meeting.
Guest speakers included Putnam County Veterans Service Agency Director Karl Rohde, Westchester County Veterans Affairs Agency Director Joshua Gaccione, Dwyer Vet2Vet Program Director Megan Castellano and keynote speaker Laurie Ciavardini.
Harckham outlined several veteran-related investments included in the state budget, including an $8 million allocation for the Dwyer Vet2Vet Peer Services Program. The budget also provides funding for veterans' legal assistance programs and organizations offering wellness services, career support and service dog training.
He also highlighted a new provision allowing municipalities that opt in to provide full property tax exemptions for veterans who are permanently and totally disabled as a result of service-connected injuries.
During the meeting, Rohde and Gaccione encouraged veterans to work with accredited service officers when filing claims for healthcare and other benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. They also stressed the importance of enrolling in the VA healthcare system and advised attendees that dependent indemnity compensation benefits may be available to surviving spouses of disabled veterans.
Castellano discussed the Vet2Vet program, which connects veterans with peers who can help them address challenges related to military service.
Rohde praised the advisory council's role in bringing veterans together and providing a forum for sharing information and resources.
Ciavardini spoke about the work of Endeavor Therapeutic Horsemanship, which provides equine-assisted programs for veterans. She said 345 veterans participated in the organization's services last year, including activities involving grooming and leading horses.
Harckham has convened seven Veterans Advisory Council meetings since taking office. He also hosts annual trips to Albany for Korean and Vietnam War veterans and participates in the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame program.
This year's Hall of Fame honoree from the 40th Senate District was Brian Sillik of Yorktown Heights, a Purple Heart recipient who served as a U.S. Army helicopter crew chief during the Vietnam War and now chairs the Jefferson Village Veterans Club.
Article provided by Sen. Harckham’s Office
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