Monument Unveiled in Honor of Vincent “Vinnie” Martinez Sr.

Glen Cove, NY — On a sunny Saturday morning of Veterans Day weekend, close to 200 people gathered to pay tribute as Glen Cove American Legion Post 76 and the Tribute and Honor Foundation hosted a heartfelt dedication ceremony on Vinnie’s Island, honoring Vincent “Vinnie” Martinez Sr. for his 40 years of service beautifying Glen Cove. The celebration was presented in collaboration with the City of Glen Cove and the Mayor’s office.

Martinez has a long history of supporting our nation and community. He served as a third-class Gunner’s Mate during the Korean War before dedicating over 50 years to community service in Glen Cove. His volunteer work began in the 1970s, and he later joined the Glen Cove Volunteer Fire Department, where he served as Captain of the Hook and Ladder Company. Vinnie was named Fireman of the Year in 1979 and continues to serve as President of the Department’s Benevolent Association.

In 1984, Vinnie began creating “Vinnie’s Island,” a beautification project at the intersection of Cottage Row and North Lane, which remains a lasting symbol of his commitment to the city. He has received numerous honors, including the Keep America Beautiful Certificate in 1987, a City of Glen Cove Proclamation in 2003, and the American Legion Certificate of Honor in 2021. Vinnie was also honored with the Tribute and Honor Foundation’s Legacy Award in 2023 for his lifelong dedication to both the Glen Cove community and his country.

Before the ceremony officially began, all veterans, firefighters, and first responders in attendance were recognized for their service, with special acknowledgment given to Vinnie’s long-standing contributions as both a veteran and firefighter. This recognition set the tone for the event, highlighting the intertwined roles Vinnie has played in safeguarding and enhancing the community.

The event began with an opening prayer led by VFW Post 347 Chaplain Chad Ryals and was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Glen Cove Fire Chief Philip Wm. Grella Jr. and VFW Post Commander Howard Stillwagon. This was followed by a stirring rendition of the National Anthem sung by Glen Cove High School student Dakota Rios.

The ceremony was led by Anthony Anzalone, Adjutant of the Glen Cove American Legion Post 76, and Gaitley Stevenson-Mathews, President of the Tribute and Honor Foundation.

Mayor Pam Panzenbeck remarked, 'Vinnie always puts others first, serving his country and devoting his life to the Glen Cove community.”

Anthony Anzalone added, “This monument is a testament to Vinnie’s profound impact on Glen Cove, not only as a veteran and firefighter but as a steward of our community's beauty and spirit.”

Gaitley Stevenson-Mathews shared, “Vinnie’s Island is a symbol of one man’s tireless dedication. This monument will serve as a lasting tribute, inspiring future generations to honor and build upon his legacy. The Tribute and Honor Foundation is so very honored to have partnered with Glen Cove American Legion Post 76 in organizing this event and ensuring the placement of this monument and plaque.”

Fire Chief Philip Wm. Grella Jr. reflected, “Vinnie embodies the best of Glen Cove. His service as a firefighter and his work in the community show his unwavering dedication to both protecting and enhancing our city. On Saturday, we honored not only Vinnie’s past but also the lasting legacy he continues to build.”

Vinnie Martinez Jr., Vinnie’s son, spoke with pride about his father: “My dad’s love for Glen Cove is truly remarkable. He has always led by example, showing us that when you take pride in your community and invest in its people, you create something that lasts far beyond your lifetime.”

Vincent “Vinnie” Martinez Sr. also shared his gratitude: “I am deeply humbled by this incredible honor. For 40 years, my work on Vinnie’s Island has been a labor of love for the Glen Cove community. It’s been my way of giving back and has brought me a lot of joy. Seeing the community come together was very moving for me. I was truly touched and am very appreciative of everyone.”

During the ceremony, Cindy Ridgers, representing Congressman Tom Suozzi, presented Vinnie with an American flag that had flown over the U.S. Capitol. Cards made by students from Gribbin Elementary School were presented, reflecting their appreciation for Vinnie’s contributions and those of all veterans, and a plaque commemorating the installation of the monument was presented to Martinez by the two sponsoring organizations.

Citations were presented by local officials, including Mayor Pam Panzenbeck, Assemblymember Charles Lavine, County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton, and Darcy Belyea on behalf of County Executive Bruce Blakeman.

As the event concluded, attendees gathered around the monument for a group photo. The camaraderie and pride were palpable, as individuals from the many aspects of Vinnie’s life and service to the community came together to honor a man whose efforts have left an indelible mark on Glen Cove.

Local officials in attendance included Mayor Pam Panzenbeck, Assemblymember Charles Lavine, County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton, and Council Members Grady Farnan, Michael Ktistakis, Danielle Fugazy Scagliola, and Marsha Silverman.

The event was made possible with the support of the sponsoring organizations, their supporters, and two anonymous donors. Adjutant Anzalone and President Stevenson-Mathews both express appreciation to the members and leadership of the organizations they represent. Leadership from the Glen Cove American Legion Post 76 includes Vincent Martinez Sr. (Commander), Anthony Anzalone (Adjutant), Donald Ranieri (Treasurer), Robert Curiano (Chaplain), and Joseph Moores (Scholarships Chair). The Tribute and Honor Foundation is led by Gaitley Stevenson-Mathews (President), Connie Pinilla, Esq. (1st Vice President), Harold Bollaci (2nd Vice President), Angelina Stanco-Stone (Secretary), Thomas Bunger (Treasurer), Lydia Wen Rodgers (Board Member), Mike Gadaleta (Board Member), Jeanine DiMenna (Co-Founder/Member Emeritus), and Koorosh Leibowitz (Awards Ceremony Manager). Additionally, the foundation is supported by a network of liaisons from the veteran community and leaders from other civic and veteran organizations.

They also expressed thanks to DPW and to Vinnie Martinez Jr. for his essential role in partnering with both organizations to coordinate the event, and to North Shore Monuments for their craftsmanship in creating the stone and plaque for the dedication.

“On Vinnie’s Island, a monument funded and created by The Tribute and Honor Foundation and Glen Cove American Legion Post 76 now serves as a permanent tribute to the tireless efforts of Vinnie Martinez Sr. and his commitment to both his country and his community. This was a good day,” said Stevenson-Mathews following the ceremony.

There will be another opportunity to honor Vinnie on Sunday at 3 p.m. at the Wunsch Arts Center at Finley Middle School (1 Forest Ave.) during the Northwinds Symphonic Band’s “A Tribute to Our Veterans” concert. A special presentation will be made to Vinnie on behalf of the two sponsoring organizations during the concert in recognition of the 40th Anniversary of Vinnie’s Island. This free concert is open to the public.

For more information about the dedication ceremony, visit www.tributeandhonorfoundation.org. For more on Glen Cove American Legion Post 76, visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/post76glencove.