Nearly 500 veterans from all across Central New York gathered at the Oneida Indian Nation’s Veterans Recognition Ceremony held at Turning Stone Resort on Saturday, Nov. 12. The speaker at this year’s event, Fort Drum Garrison Command Sergeant Major John F. McNeirney remembered those who have served and those who are currently serving in the U.S. Military when he said, “These great warriors have served our nation well and demonstrated our core values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity and personal courage.” He stated, “All of those values (were) demonstrated by the Oneida Indian Nation, our first allies” when more than 200 years ago during the American Revolution, the Oneida Nation “pledged to support the new (ly) formed American Continental Army and provided unwavering support …” McNeriney added, “even when faced with the destruction of their villages and the death of their families, the Oneida remained loyal to their word.” He went on to recognize the Oneidas for carrying their corn hundreds of miles to help George Washington’s starving troops at Valley Forge, noting “It is allies like the Oneida that I am grateful for.” As a part of their recognition of veterans, the Oneida Nation presented a check for $1,000 to the Leo B. Wheeler Chapter of Disabled American Veterans, located in Utica, N.Y. This year’s event was the 11th year in a row that the Nation has hosted a recognition ceremony and breakfast for area veterans.

Pictured: Margaret Splain (Turtle Clan) presents a gift, on behalf of the Oneida Nation, to Sergeant Major McNeirney.