September 2021 Veterans affairs

 First I would like to thank John Manning for appointing me to the Veterans Affairs Chair for the next two years.  My name is Shaun Stagner I'm a Marine Corps veteran, and the Marshall of the John C Devereux Div #1 out of Utica. I currently work for the NYSDOCCS for the past 14 yrs. I would fist like to thank all of you for the service you have given this great country, and the continued service you do for the community while being a member of this great organization the Ancient Order of Hibernians.

 My goal as the veteran affairs officer is to make sure that no service connected member should ever find themselves in need of help and support. In the military we are taught that no one gets left behind, and I will make sure that this principle is held to the highest standard. 

 I am currently working on a missing man/fallen soldier table to be placed at The Irish cultural center here in Utica. This table will be used for member Hibernians who have served this great country who have made the ultimate sacrifice, while being a member of our organization. This remembrance table when up will be for all State Hibernian members who have served in the armed forces. I will also be working on a project for the month of November to recognize one brother a day for the month that will be posted on the NYS Facebook page. 

 In the Marine Corps we use the words Semper Fidelis as a send-off when leaving friends and brothers, in Latin this means Always Faithful. This will also be my promise to you; I will always be faithful to this organization and to our members who served. In closing and until we meet again stand strong in Faith, Unity, and Christian charity. 

 Semper Fi. 

Shaun D Stagner 

 NYS Veterans Affairs Chair.