Assemblyman Matt Slater announced on Mar. 10 the passage of legislation (A.8087) that establishes a New York State Cold War Commemorative Medal to honor veterans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces during the Cold War era.
The bill amends state military law, allowing the governor, with input from the New York State Department of Veterans’ Services, to present a commemorative medal to individuals who served from the end of World War II until 1991. The measure also specifies that recipients do not need to have been New York residents at the time they entered military service.
Slater said he has long supported efforts to recognize and support veterans. “Cold War veterans stood watch during one of the most uncertain periods in modern history,” Slater said. “Here in the Hudson Valley, I’ve had the privilege of meeting many veterans who served during that era and helped safeguard our nation. Their vigilance helped deter global conflict and protect the freedoms we enjoy today. I’m proud to support this legislation and celebrate its passage so these heroes finally receive the recognition they have long earned.”
Kent resident Richie Othmer, a VFW veteran, welcomed news of the bill’s passage. “For many of us who served during the Cold War, our responsibility was to be ready every single day,” Othmer said. “It means a lot to know that New York state will formally recognize our service.”
Previously, Cold War veterans could receive a certificate acknowledging their service, but there has never been a federal medal specifically for this period. This new legislation allows New York state to formally honor these veterans with a commemorative medal recognizing their dedication and sacrifice.
Slater has supported local relief efforts for hurricane victims and worked on veteran honors and environmental designations, according to his official biography. He received a Presidential Direct Commission as an officer in the Navy Reserves in 2022 and is assigned to Navy Cargo Handling Battalion 8 according to his official biography. Slater resides with his wife and two children in Yorktown according to his official biography.
He won election to the New York State Assembly in 2022 after being reelected as Yorktown town supervisor in 2021 according to his official biography. Slater graduated from St. Anselm College in 2008 and obtained a Master of Public Administration from Marist College in 2010 according to his official biography. Raised in Yorktown and a graduate of Yorktown High School, he began his career in public service according to his official biography.
Looking ahead, Slater is calling on the Senate to pass this legislation before year’s end.
