Queens Honors Its Heroes At Veterans Day Observance Ceremony

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz hosted the borough’s annual Veterans Day Observance Ceremony on Thursday, November 6, at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Elmhurst Park, located at 79th Street and Grand Avenue in Elmhurst. Beginning at 11:00 a.m., the program brought together veterans, military families, community leaders, local officials, and residents for a heartfelt tribute to the brave men and women who have served the United States with courage and devotion. This year’s ceremony honored four distinguished veterans for their extraordinary service: Sergeant First Class Dominick Pepe of the United States Army, a Vietnam War veteran; Sergeant Major Jackie Wilson of the United States Army Reserve, a veteran of Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm; Commander Michael Arcati of the United States Navy, an Iraq War veteran; and Specialist Chris Morales Jr. of the United States Army, a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom and a valued member of the Queens DA’s Office.

In her remarks, DA Katz expressed deep appreciation for the honorees and for all veterans across Queens, noting that their sacrifice continues to protect the freedoms Americans cherish. She shared her pride in the veterans who serve within her own office—as prosecutors, investigators, and support staff—highlighting how their discipline, integrity, and commitment to service strengthen the mission of the District Attorney’s Office each day. She reaffirmed her pledge to honor veterans not only through ceremonial recognition but through meaningful action, including ensuring that veterans who come into contact with the justice system are provided access to treatment and supportive services rather than incarceration, reflecting a commitment to dignity, rehabilitation, and respect.

The ceremony also included a poignant Special Tribute to the Fallen, honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the nation. With the memorial’s engraved names as a backdrop, attendees paused in solemn reflection, remembering the heroes who never returned home and acknowledging the families who continue to bear their loss. The event captured the unity and gratitude that define the Queens community, demonstrating once again that the borough stands firmly with its veterans—honoring their service, preserving their legacy, and ensuring that no sacrifice is ever forgotten.