Bellone Congratulates 'Future Soldiers'

Twelve young people were honored last week at a promotion ceremony at the H. Lee Dennison building in Hauppauge, before they head to Army basic training.

The newly promoted residents went through the Army’s Future Soldiers program, which provides academic and physical preparation for service, and helps enlistees and their families by providing information on the Army lifestyle, benefits, education, healthcare and life insurance.

“Congratulations to these upstanding, skilled young people who are dedicating themselves to serving their country and protecting our way of life,” said County Executive Steve Bellone. “They have already proven their commitment to service through hard work and sacrifice.”

Promoted at the ceremony were: Tyler D. Buffolino, Islip Terrace; Ramon A. Ramirez Baez, Brentwood; Benjamin A. Lacaden, Mastic Beach; Taylor N. Neumann, Rocky Point; Grayson L. Garland, Ft Worth, Texas; Christopher J. Dannenfelser, Bay Shore; Justice Boadi, Brentwood; Alexander Winters, Moriches; Justin B. Ketcham, Sayville; Yijun Chen, Stony Brook; Alexei R. Brandt, Southold and Stephen A. Gregory, Bay Shore.