IR 1041, a Local Law to protect the honor of decorated veterans, was unanimously approved by the Legislature. The law, which was sponsored by Suffolk County Legislator William R. Spencer, M.D. and co-sponsored by Legislator Steve Stern, will prohibit persons from deceitfully presenting themselves as a decorated veteran while soliciting funds.

Legislator Spencer was approached by members of the American Legion Post 694 with a request to enact a local Stolen Valor Act. “When I heard from local veterans that such fraudulent acts were taking place in Suffolk County, I was compelled to work with them. This type of deception is especially egregious as it preys on the charitable spirit of our residents and drains resources from those who need our support,” stated Legislator Spencer. “I am thankful to all the local veterans for their support and expertise in making this the law of Suffolk County.”

John Cooney, Commander of the Northport American Legion Post 694, spoke before the legislature in support of the bill, “This is a very important piece of legislation to our veterans and veterans’ organizations. Sadly, we have a growing problem in Suffolk County and throughout this great Nation with individuals misrepresenting their service. We must ensure that individuals receiving support accurately represent their service, including whether they were accurately wounded in combat, especially in light of the limited resources available to help the growing number of veterans and families that are truly in need.”

As the home to the largest population of veterans in New York State, Suffolk County provides a host of services through the Veterans Service Agency which can be reached at 631-853-VETS, the Hauppauge Office is located at 100 Veterans Memorial Highway and the Riverhead Office is located at 300 Center Drive They can also be contacted via email at servingheroes@suffolkcountyny.gov or veterans.info@suffolkcountyny.gov.