In a recent ceremony held at the Plainview VFW 5942, Senator Kemp Hannon (Sixth Senate District) presented several of its members with the Medal for Merit (pictured left). With the newly authorized Conspicuous Service Star and changes made to the criteria for the Conspicuous Service Cross, The adjutant general recently authorized an additional state military decoration: the New York State Medal for Merit. The medal is issued to recognize veterans whose service on federal active duty was honorable and who were recipients of a valor, achievement, commendation, or meritorious service decoration, of a lesser degree than required for award of the Conspicuous Service Cross, or whose service was in direct support of combat operations.

"I am grateful to all the brave men and women who have served, and continue to serve our country. It is an honor, and a privilege to be able to recognize these veterans by awarding them with the NYS Medal for Merit," said Hannon.

Individuals who have been awarded the Conspicuous Service Cross are not authorized to apply for the New York State Medal for Merit.

New York State Division of Veterans' Affairs state veterans counselors can assist veterans in submitting an application for the Medal for Merit and in collecting documentation of eligibility for the award.

For more information and application to apply for this award, contact NYS Division of Military and Naval Affairs , or contact Senator Kemp Hannon's District office at 739-1700.