Record-Breaking Crowd Turns Out for 5th Annual Tribute and Honor Awards

GLEN COVE, NY — The Tribute and Honor Foundation hosted a record-breaking crowd on Saturday, February 7, at its 5th Annual Tribute and Honor Awards Ceremony & Fundraising Gala.

The sold-out event brought together veterans, families, first responders, elected officials, and community leaders from across Long Island to recognize eight honorees whose service, leadership, and advocacy have made a lasting impact on veterans and the broader community.

“It is always an honor to be invited to welcome guests to the Tribute and Honor Awards,” said Glen Cove Mayor Pam Panzenbeck. “Year after year, this event brings our community together to recognize the extraordinary service of veterans and those who stand beside them. The record turnout speaks volumes about how deeply this mission resonates across Glen Cove and Long Island.”

In reflecting on the evening, Gaitley Stevenson-Mathews, President and Founder of the Tribute and Honor Foundation, explained that the Awards were intentionally designed to do more than recognize individual achievement.

“From the very beginning, these Awards were created not only to honor our veterans and veteran supporters, but also to shine a light on issues that are deeply important to the veteran community,” Stevenson-Mathews said. “Each Award category reflects a specific form of service, leadership, or advocacy that strengthens our community and ensures veterans are seen, supported, and remembered.”

The 2026 honorees included:

Peter Carbone (Community Service Award) — The Community Service Award, presented to a veteran whose work goes above and beyond the call of duty in serving fellow veterans and the Long Island community, was awarded to Peter Carbone, a U.S. Army veteran and longtime member of Bayville’s American Legion Post 1285. Carbone has dedicated more than fifty years to veteran advocacy and community service, championing scholarship programs, remembrance events, Boy Scout partnerships, and numerous local civic initiatives.

Marisa Gambino, who serves as President of Loggia Glen Cove #1018, Sons and Daughters of Italy in America, attended the event along with her husband, Dr. Charles Gambino, and Joseph Gallo, Immediate Past President of the lodge.

“Peter Carbone is a longtime member of our Lodge, a proud veteran, and someone who has quietly given so much to others over the years,” said Gambino. “Honoring Peter in this way was a tremendous source of pride for our organization, made even more meaningful by the fact that two of our Lodge trustees, Gaitley Stevenson-Mathews and Mike Gadaleta, also serve on the board of the Tribute and Honor Foundation. As Italian Americans and as Americans, we are deeply proud of our shared commitment to honoring those who have given so much to protect our freedom.”

Officer Owen Valance (Impact Award) — Recognizing the strong relationship between veterans and first responders, the Impact Award is presented to a veteran who has made a meaningful impact on the community through service both in the military and as a first responder. This year’s award was presented to Owen Valance, a U.S. Navy veteran and Glen Cove police officer, for his commitment to veterans’ mental health awareness, including completing the 22-mile PTSD Awareness Kayak Challenge alongside his brother, Derek Valance, a fellow police officer, Navy veteran, and 2024 Impact Award recipient.

Although unable to attend this year’s event due to a scheduling conflict, Glen Cove Police Chief Christopher Ortiz shared his support.

“Our department prides itself on service to the community, and veterans are an important part of Glen Cove,” Ortiz said. “We are proud to continue partnering with the Tribute and Honor Foundation in support of veterans and first responders. The fact that the Foundation has a specific award honoring veterans who choose to pursue careers as first responders upon returning home is a testament to its understanding of service. We commend the Foundation and are very proud of Owen on this well-deserved honor.”

While many of the Chiefs of First Responder units and heads of law enforcement support organizations were unable to attend due to another event the same evening, there was meaningful representation from the units. Ex-Chief Philip Wm. Grella Jr. attended representing Chief Justin M. Valeo and the Glen Cove Volunteer Fire Department; representation was also present on behalf of Chief Christopher Ortiz and the Glen Cove Police Department; and Officer Frank Vezza represented President Chris Pascucci and the Glen Cove Police Benevolent Association.

“We recognize the strong bond that exists between veterans and first responders and are deeply appreciative of the continued support of our local Police Department, Fire Department, EMS, Auxiliary, and all first responder organizations,” said Stevenson-Mathews. “That shared commitment to service strengthens our entire community.”

Long Island Cares, Veterans Services (Homefront Award) — The Homefront Award, presented to a non-veteran individual or organization for outstanding service on the homefront in support of the veteran community, was awarded to Long Island Cares, Veterans Services. Through food banks, resource navigation, and direct outreach, the program provides critical food security and wrap-around support to veterans and their families across Long Island. Accepting the award on behalf of Long Island Cares were Justin Berbig, Director of Veterans Services, and Michael Haynes, Vice President for Government Relations, Advocacy, and Social Policy.

Katherine Fritz, President and CEO of Long Island Cares, expressed appreciation for the recognition. “We were honored to have Justin Berbig and Michael Haynes represent Long Island Cares at the 5th Annual Tribute and Honor Awards,” Fritz said. “Supporting our veterans and their families is central to our mission, and we are proud to stand with the Foundation and all of the honorees.”

Eileen Shanahan & Warrior Ranch Foundation (Awareness & Remembrance Award) — The Awareness and Remembrance Award, presented to individuals or an organization recognized for elevating awareness and confronting the alarming rate of suicide among active service members and veterans, while encouraging remembrance and open dialogue, was awarded to Eileen Shanahan and the Warrior Ranch Foundation. Through horse rescue, equine therapy, and storytelling, Warrior Ranch Foundation creates safe and supportive spaces for veterans and first responders to heal from trauma while fostering greater public understanding of the challenges they face.

“I didn’t quite know what to expect when I arrived, but the evening unfolded with such care and purpose,” said Eileen Shanahan. “The recognition was deeply meaningful, and it was humbling to stand alongside so many individuals devoted to service. The event was beautifully run, and I’m grateful to everyone involved with the Foundation for the work they do.”

Simone Renaud (Front Runner Award) — The Front Runner Award, presented to an individual or organization that has made a major impact by being a front runner in supporting veterans and the families of veterans, was awarded posthumously to Simone Renaud. The wife of Sainte-Mère-Église’s World War II mayor, Renaud—affectionately known as the “Mother of Normandy”—devoted her life to honoring fallen Allied soldiers and supporting their families in the first town liberated on D-Day. Her lifelong commitment to remembrance helped lay the foundation for the sister-city relationship between Sainte-Mère-Église, France and Locust Valley, New York.

The award was accepted by her son, Maurice Renaud, President of the Friends of the American Veterans Association, who traveled from France to attend the ceremony.
“To see my mother’s lifelong work remembered in this way was deeply moving,” Maurice Renaud said. “The Tribute and Honor Foundation understands that remembrance is not about the past alone—it is about responsibility. This ceremony honored that responsibility with great dignity.”

Robert Freeland (Volunteer Award) — The Volunteer Award, presented to a veteran in recognition of dedicated service as a volunteer supporting fellow veterans and the community, was awarded to Robert Freeland. A Vietnam War veteran who served with the U.S. Army’s 34th Engineer Battalion, Freeland has continued his service as Commander of Port Washington’s VFW Post 1819, dedicating decades to veteran leadership and volunteer service.

Reflecting on the broader impact of the evening, North Hempstead Supervisor Jennifer DeSena underscored its regional importance, especially noting the Foundation’s scholarship work.

“I make it a point to attend the Tribute and Honor Awards whenever possible because of the meaningful impact this organization has across Long Island,” DeSena said. “While tonight we celebrate honorees like Bob and all the outstanding veterans here, I also want to recognize that this past year the Foundation honored five students from Schreiber High School with Ben Farnan Scholarships for choosing military service. It’s a powerful testament to how service continues from one generation to the next.”

Philip Como (Leadership Award) — The Leadership Award, presented to a veteran for exemplary leadership in serving fellow veterans and the community, was awarded to Philip Como. A U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam War veteran decorated with the Navy Achievement Medal with Combat “V,” Como has served as Deputy Mayor of Sea Cliff, a volunteer firefighter, and Commander of Sea Cliff American Legion Post 456. He is also an active member of Glen Cove’s VFW Post 347.
Sea Cliff Mayor Elena Villafane attended the evening alongside her husband, Dan Kelly, joined by former Sea Cliff Mayors Eileen Krieb and Bruce Kennedy and their spouses, Larry Krieb and Lora Cusumano — a visible show of support from Sea Cliff’s current and past leadership in recognition of Philip Como and the Foundation’s mission.

“Honoring Phil Como was especially meaningful for all of us in Sea Cliff,” said Sea Cliff Mayor Elena Villafane. “His leadership, service, and lifelong commitment to veterans reflect the very best of our community. Congratulations to all of the honorees tonight — each one represents strength, service, and inspiration.”

Scott Whitting (Legacy Award) — The Legacy Award, presented to a veteran in recognition of a long-standing commitment to serving fellow veterans and the broader community, was awarded to Scott Whitting. A U.S. Army Special Forces Vietnam War veteran, Whitting earned the Bronze Star and Soldier’s Medal before continuing his service as a Major in the New York Guard. He remains a Lifetime Member of the Glenwood Fire Company and a longtime member of Glenwood Landing American Legion Post 336.

“Scott Whitting represents the very definition of legacy,” said Robert Bazan, former Commander of Glenwood Landing American Legion Post 336 and the Foundation’s 2025 Leadership Award recipient. “His service to our nation and the example he set for generations of veterans continue to inspire this community.”

First Central Savings Bank was among the many sponsors whose support helped make the evening possible.

“First Central Savings Bank was proud to support this year’s Tribute and Honor Awards,” said Matt Nartowicz, Senior Vice President at the bank. “Standing with organizations that honor veterans and strengthen the community is core to who we are. I know Gaitley and many of the board members personally, and it has been inspiring to see this organization grow. We are proud to support the Tribute and Honor Foundation’s mission and the impact it continues to make for veterans and their families.”

Sponsors of the 5th Annual Tribute and Honor Awards played a vital role in making the evening possible. Silver Star Sponsors included Herald Community Media, First Central Savings Bank, and Men on the Move. Bronze Star Sponsors included Emerge Nursing and Rehabilitation; Glen Cove Center for Nursing & Rehabilitation; Bollaci Law Group, PC; Lydia Wen and Michael Rodgers; and Gaitley and Jim Stevenson-Mathews.

Meritorious Service Sponsors included The Celeste Gullo Insurance Agency; CareFirst Home Solutions; CEC Health Care; How Can I Help Elder Care – Angelina Stanco-Stone; The Mansion at Glen Cove; Glengariff Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center; DiStefano Charitable Foundation (Helen Bauer and Melinda Edwards, Trustees); State Farm – John Perrone Agency; LPL Financial – Tom Coelho, Financial Advisor; Bulovas Restorations Inc.; Loggia Glen Cove #1016; The Regency Assisted Living; the YMCA; Glen Cove Republican Committee; Mary Stanco Real Estate Salesperson Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices; John Grella and Carol Marshall; Councilman Grady and Camille Farnan; Donna M. McNaughton, Esq.; Mayor Pam and Bob Panzenbeck; Howard and Mary Stillwagon; Warren T. Wasp; and Hon. Diane and Bernard Yatauro.

Andrea Nordquist, President of Military Blue Star Mothers NY 14 and a long-standing Liaison member of the Tribute and Honor Foundation, reflected on her experience working closely with the organization and its volunteers.

“As head of our organization, I know what kind of work goes into running and managing an all-volunteer effort like the Tribute and Honor Foundation,” Nordquist said. “I deeply respect the hard work of the board, volunteers, and my fellow Liaison members. To be in that room, to hear the stories and witness the impact — it’s all worth it.”

Ben Farnan, honored with the Legacy Award during the Foundation’s inaugural event and namesake of the Ben Farnan Scholarship, also shared his thoughts.

“It has been humbling to see a scholarship created in my name that supports young people choosing to serve,” Farnan said. “This organization not only honors those who served before us but also invests in those who will serve tomorrow.”

Looking back on the Foundation’s growth, Howard Stillwagon, Commander of Glen Cove’s VFW Post 347, reflected on its evolution.

“It has been incredibly rewarding to watch the Tribute and Honor Foundation grow from strength to strength,” Stillwagon said. “From their grassroots efforts following the devastating 2021 fire at our Post, to the Ben Farnan Scholarship, to the Military Banner Program in Morgan Park, the Foundation’s work is making a real and lasting difference.”

“Having been part of the Tribute and Honor Foundation since the beginning, it has been incredibly meaningful to watch this organization grow,” said Angelina Stanco-Stone, a Glen Cove native and Secretary of the Foundation’s Board of Directors. “What truly defines this work is the team behind it—an extraordinary group of individuals who are deeply committed to working together and, most importantly, to serving our veterans. That shared dedication is what continues to drive this Foundation forward.”

“While I never served in the military myself, I am fortunate to come from a family shaped by service—my father served in the U.S. Navy, my mother was part of the Cadet Nurse Corps during World War II, and my brother, a retired colonel, served two tours of duty in Afghanistan,” Stevenson-Mathews added. “That personal connection is why, when I joined with an incredible group of individuals to begin the organization in December 2021, I knew that in addition to raising funds to serve the veteran community, we also needed to honor those who serve and reinforce the importance of remembering the sacrifices made on our behalf.”

Elected officials in attendance included Sea Cliff Mayor Elena Villafane, Glen Cove Mayor Pam Panzenbeck, North Hempstead Supervisor Jenn DeSena, State Assemblymember Jodi Giglio, County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton, County Legislator Samantha Goetz, Riverhead Councilman Ken Rothwell and Glen Cove City Council Members Grady Farnan, Michael Ktistakis, Daniele Fugazy Scagliola and John Zozzaro.

Also in attendance were Judge Joe Capobianco and Vietnam veteran Ed Aulman, representing Congressman Tom Suozzi’s office.

Many area elected officials also provided formal citations recognizing the eight honorees, and they were acknowledged during the course of the event. At the suggestion of one of the Foundation’s veteran members, the organization reaches out to elected officials in advance of the event, requesting that citations be submitted ahead of time so they may be proudly displayed, rather than having the elected official present the certificate directly to the honoree at the event. With eight veterans and veteran supporters to recognize, this approach continues to honor local heroes while allowing more time to focus on sharing the narratives of those being recognized.

“We are truly appreciative of the elected officials for their thoughtfulness in joining with us in honoring our heroes in this way,” said Ben Farnan, a veteran and namesake of the Foundation’s Scholarship Program.

Those providing official commendations included County Executive Bruce Blakeman, Congressman Tom Suozzi, Oyster Bay Supervisor Joe Saladino, North Hempstead Supervisor Jennifer DeSena, Comptroller Elaine Phillips, Glen Cove Mayor Pam Panzenbeck, Sea Cliff Mayor Elena Villafane, State Assemblymember Charles Lavine, State Assemblymember Dan Norber, State Senator Jack Martins, County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton, and County Legislator Samantha Goetz.

The Tribute and Honor Foundation is led by a dedicated volunteer Board of Directors, including Gaitley Stevenson-Mathews, President; Harold Bollaci, Vice President; Angelina Stanco-Stone, Secretary; Thomas Bunger, Treasurer; Mike Gadaleta, Community Engagement Officer; Koorosh Leibowitz, Programming and Events Officer; and Lydia Wen Rodgers, Online and Media Content Officer.

The Foundation’s Liaison Committee includes John Blazich and John Sullivan (Glen Cove Boy Scout Troop 6); Eva Casale (Team E.V.A.); Wayne and Lisa Cohen (Patriot Guard Riders of New York and Rolling Thunder, Inc.); Jeffrey Rosenking (Honor Flight Long Island); Dr. Maxine Mayreis (Glen Cove Chamber of Commerce); Andrea Nordquist (Military Blue Star Mothers NY 14); Susan Rassekh (Glen Cove Hospital Northwell Health); Howard Stillwagon (VFW Post 347); Mary Suddell (Glen Cove and Emerge Centers for Nursing and Rehabilitation); and Luke Whitting (Glenwood Landing American Legion Post 336). Cofounder and Member Emeritus is Jeanine DiMenna.

The evening’s Master of Ceremonies was Foundation President Gaitley Stevenson-Mathews, with co-presenters including Board members, along with Acting Commander Richard Bathie of Bayville’s Robert H. Spittel American Legion Post 1285; Andrea Nordquist, 2025 Homefront Award Recipient and President of Military Blue Star Mothers NY 14; Eva Casale, Founder of Team E.V.A. (Every Veteran Appreciated) and Liaison Committee Member; Donna Zephrine, 2025 Awareness and Remembrance Award Recipient representing the 22 PTSD Awareness Challenge; Commander Harold Stillwagon of Glen Cove’s James E. Donahue VFW Post 347 and 2022 Tribute and Honor Award Recipient; Quartermaster Frederick J. Blumlein of Port Washington’s Henderson-Marino VFW Post 1819; Derek Valance, 2024 Impact Award Recipient and Glen Cove Police Officer; Tony Bliss, 2025 Legacy Award Recipient and Former Commander of Locust Valley’s Howard A. Van Wagner American Legion Post 962; and CAPT Robert Bazan, 2025 Leadership Award Recipient and Former Commander of Glenwood Landing American Legion Post 336. Serving as Ceremony Manager was Alex Hom.

Additional participants in the ceremony included Ben Farnan, former Commander of Glen Cove’s VFW Post 347 and 2022 Legacy Award Recipient, who offered a Welcome on behalf of the veteran community; Glen Cove Mayor Pam Panzenbeck, who provided a Welcome on behalf of the City of Glen Cove; Firefighter Pete Prudente of the Glen Cove Volunteer Fire Department and 2023 Homefront Award Recipient, who led the Moment of Silence; Rabbi Sharon Ballan of Temple Beth Sholom and Chaplain Sgt. Evelyn Kandell of Locust Valley’s Howard A. Van Wagner American Legion Post 962, who delivered the Invocation; Tenor Joe Stroppel, who performed The Star-Spangled Banner; and Commander Howard Stillwagon, Vice Commander Chad Ryals, and Trustee Michael Danchalski of Glen Cove’s James E. Donahue VFW Post 347, who conducted the Presentation and Posting of the Colors. The ceremony concluded with a Closing Blessing offered by Commander Chad Ryals of Locust Valley’s Howard A. Van Wagner American Legion Post 962 and Vice Commander and Acting Chaplain of Glen Cove’s James E. Donahue VFW Post 347. Scouts from Troops 6 and 153 assisted with logistics throughout the evening, helping ensure the event ran smoothly from start to finish.

Now in its fifth year, the Tribute and Honor Awards Ceremony continues to grow in both size and impact, bringing together veterans, community leaders, and supporters from across Long Island while raising vital funds to advance the Foundation’s ongoing mission.

Those who were unable to attend the event but wish to support the Foundation’s work can learn more at TributeAndHonorFoundation.org.