Lupinacci Joins Tribute To Veterans Advocate Mario Buonpane

Lupinacci, standing, back row, joins local elected officials and the Buonpane family moments after a bench was dedicated to the memory of veterans advocate Mario Buonpane at Town Hall's Veterans Plaza on Sunday, April 24.
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Assemblyman Chad A. Lupinacci (R,C,I-South Huntington) recently joined a tribute to the life of Mario Buonpane, one of Huntington’s staunchest advocates for veterans.

The Town of Huntington on Sunday, April 24, unveiled a bench and plaque at Huntington Town Hall’s Veterans Plaza in celebration of Buonpane, who passed away in late 2015 after a battle with prostate cancer.

Buonpane, a Korean War veteran and lifelong public servant, dedicated his life to honoring United States veterans. Throughout a life of passionate advocacy, Buonpane played a crucial role in the foundation of “Veterans Plaza,” a collection of monuments erected in front of Huntington Town Hall.

“Today, I have the privilege of joining the family of Mario Buonpane, a patriot and tireless advocate for the welfare of veterans,” Lupinacci said. “While Mario first gave back through his military service, his lifelong calling – you might call it a mission – was to help any veteran who was in need of assistance.

“While today’s gathering is bittersweet, it is also an occasion of great pride. We are unveiling a small token of appreciation in this plaza to commemorate the life and advocacy of Mario Buonpane for veterans and all of us in Huntington,” Lupinacci said.