Handmade Gift Honors Nyack Vet's Service, Sacrifice

Veteran Frank Morea got a surprise at state Sen. David Carlucci’s 4th Annual Veterans Appreciation Breakfast on Sunday.

It was a big, handmade, red, white and blue blanket.

Sandi Partridge is a member of Senator Carlucci’s Senior Advisory Council, who in her spare time crochets red, white and blue afghan blankets for veterans throughout Rockland County.

When told that Morea would be attending the brunch, Partridge contacted Carlucci about presenting one to the World War II army vet to honor his dedicated service to the USA.

Morea is 102 years old.

Sunday’s brunch at the Nyack Seaport, which was open to veterans and their families from throughout the Lower Hudson Valley, included a performance from the Suffern High School Chamber Orchestra.

“Veterans come from diverse backgrounds and all walks of life, but the common theme that unites them, and all members of the United States Armed Forces, is their patriotism, bravery and devotion to their country,” Carlucci said in a prepared statement. “It is in that spirit that we began our annual Veterans Appreciation Breakfast and I am glad to partner with veterans on my Veterans Advisory Council and throughout the Lower Hudson Valley.”

Morea served with the 77th Infantry Division, 304 Field Artillery in the Pacific Theatre in Leyte, Cebu, Kerama Retto, IE Shim, Okinawa and Hokkaido. He received many awards for his dedication and service to the United States Army and his country. Some of these recognitions include the Asiatic Pacific Three Star Citation, the World War II Medal, Philippine Independence Medal, Good Conduct Mechanic’s Medal and the Conspicuous Service Medal.

He is a member of Carlucci’s veterans advisory council and was recently inducted into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame.