Red, White & You: Honoring New York’s Military Heroes

New York has a storied tradition of military service, with countless individuals dedicating their lives to protecting our nation. While words can't fully capture the immense gratitude we feel for our servicemen and women, Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to highlight a few remarkable veterans and active-duty military members from our state. Read about their stories below, and if you know a military hero who deserves recognition, we’d love to hear from you! Simply answer a few questions, and we’ll take care of the rest.

1. Private First Class Charles R. Johnson (1932-1953)

Private First Class Charles R. Johnson of Millbrook was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor in January 2025 for his extraordinary heroism during the Korean War. On June 12, 1953, while serving as a medic with the 14th Infantry Regiment, Johnson sacrificed his life to save at least eight fellow soldiers during a fierce enemy attack at Outpost Harry, despite sustaining fatal injuries. Initially awarded the Silver Star, his recognition was upgraded after decades of advocacy by his family, community members and lawmakers, who also highlighted concerns that his valor may have been overlooked due to racial bias. Johnson's legacy continues to inspire, particularly through the Charlie Johnson Legacy Project at Arlington High School, which educates students about his courage and character. Read more here.

2. Army Sgt. Major Eric Geressy

Retired Army Sgt. Maj. Eric Geressy was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his heroic leadership during a six-hour ambush at Combat Outpost Blackfoot in Baghdad in 2007, where he saved lives and decisively defeated a large al-Qaida force. Throughout his 36-year military career, the Staten Island native demonstrated exceptional valor, from leading counterattacks in Iraq to mentoring future national leaders. Known for putting his soldiers first, Geressy repeatedly risked his life to protect his men and was praised for his calmness under fire and extraordinary leadership. Now serving as a senior advisor at the Pentagon, he continues to impact military policy with a focus on readiness and soldier welfare. Read more here.

3. Sgt. Roberta Lee

Sgt. Roberta Lee was honored with the American Red Cross Military Heroes Award for saving an infant's life during a routine training exercise at Fort Drum in September 2023. When a woman rushed out of her car screaming that her baby wasn’t breathing, Lee quickly responded, performed back blows, cleared the airway and stabilized the infant, drawing on her recent Pediatric Advanced Life Support training. Though she humbly viewed it as part of her duty, the recognition marked a meaningful moment as she prepared to exit the military. Lee said she felt deeply appreciated and proud, calling it a “good story to tell” as she reflects on her service. Read more here.

4. First Lt. Gabrielle A. White

West Point graduate First Lt. Gabrielle A. White made history as the first woman to complete the U.S. Army's grueling Best Ranger Competition, a three-day event featuring over 30 physically and mentally demanding challenges. Competing alongside Capt. Seth Deltenre, the duo secured 14th place out of 52 teams in the 2025 competition held at Fort Benning, Georgia. The 25-year-old is an infantry officer assigned to the Maneuver Captains Career Course, and holds distinctions such as the Ranger Tab and Air Assault Badge. Her accomplishment marks a significant milestone since the Army began allowing women to attend Ranger School in 2015. Read more here.

5. Staff Sgt. David Bellavia

Staff Sergeant David G. Bellavia, a Lyndonville native, received the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary heroism during Operation Phantom Fury in Fallujah, Iraq. When his squad was trapped by insurgent fire inside a house, Bellavia re-entered the building alone, engaging in close-quarters combat that resulted in the elimination of four insurgents and the wounding of a fifth, thereby saving his fellow soldiers. His actions exemplified conspicuous gallantry and selflessness, going above and beyond what was expected of him. Bellavia is the first and only living recipient of the Medal of Honor for service during the Iraq War. Read more here.

Do you know a veteran or active military member who deserves recognition? We’d love to hear their story! Click here to nominate them for a chance to be featured on Patch!