Assemblyman Tom Alfano hosted a special "thank-you ceremony" for Specialist Abraham Morales of the US Army who has returned from Iraq after a one-year tour of duty with the 719th Transportation Division. Surrounded by family, friends and students of his alma mater: Dutch Broadway Elementary and Elmont Memorial High School, Alfano not only honored Morales for his service to a grateful nation but presented him with the Third Annual Hispanic American Community Service Award of the 21st Assembly District.

"Young people like Abraham who leave their homes, family and community to serve their country are the heart and soul of our great country," said Alfano. who added, "what better place to honor him than in front of the very young people who are the next generation of leaders. Abraham, we're proud of you and thank you!"

Elmont VFW Commander Tom Bennet and Assemblyman Alfano also co-presented a flag flown over the Capitol to Dutch Broadway School in honor of Morales and his service in the Army. "Abraham's personal sacrifice in serving his country during the war on terror can never be thanked enough. The members of the VFW salute him for his service," said commander Tom Bennet.

The ceremony took place in Dutch Broadway School Library where Morales graduated and currently has two siblings in the primary grades. He then went on to graduate from Elmont Memorial High School. Principal Walter Aksionoff of Dutch Broadway School said, "It's a real honor to have one of our own former students serve our country with such great distinction. I know Abraham's brothers and sisters are real proud." "Principal Al Harper of Elmont Memorial High School added, "I have a saying posted in my office that says the ultimate judge of a person's character is their ability to exceed expectations when little recognition or praise is given. Abraham Morales is an unsung hero."

Alfano honored Morales with his Third Annual Hispanic American Community Service Award for his service to the United States and the fight against terror. The award recognizes outstanding service of Hispanic Americans in the 21st Assembly District. In addition to his service, Morales sings for the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir where he and the Choir have won five Grammy Awards.

"This is an honor for outstanding individuals - Abraham you're one of them. In your service to our country, your church and community you have made a difference and we thank you."

For his service to our country, Morales was awarded the Army Commendation Medal for his work in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Morales was a transportation specialist who worked the supply routes transporting military hardware and supplies from Kuwait to Baghdad.