‘A Lifetime Of Service’: Deer Park’s Ted Corn Named 2025 Veteran Of The Year

DEER PARK, NY — Suffolk County Legislator Tom Donnelly recently honored Theodore “Ted” Corn of Deer Park as the 17th Legislative District’s 2025 Veteran of the Year, recognizing his military service and nearly a lifetime of commitment to public service.

Corn served in the 71st Infantry as a National Guard Specialist (SP5) and Army Reserve veteran from 1969 to 1979. During his service, he completed extensive field training and supported active-duty readiness missions, earning the respect of fellow service members and commanding officers, Donnelly said.

Corn continues to honor military tradition as a member of the 11th Honor Guard, where he achieved the rank of E-6 and performs ceremonial duties honoring fallen service members.

After his military career, Corn remained deeply involved in his community. He has volunteered with the Deer Park Fire Department for nearly four decades and currently serves as Captain of the Fire Police. He is also a service officer for American Legion Post 94, a past chancellor commander of the Knights of Pythias, and an active member of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Corn was formally recognized during the Suffolk County Legislature’s Nov. 25 general meeting in Hauppauge, where Donnelly presented him with a county proclamation.

The Veteran of the Year recognition program was established under Resolution No. 841-2024, allowing each Suffolk County legislator to honor a veteran from their district in connection with Veterans Day, recognizing courage, patriotism, and service.

“With a lifetime of service to others, first in uniform and now in our local community, Ted Corn embodies the ideals and values that make our communities stronger,” Donnelly said. “I am grateful and privileged to recognize his service and sacrifice and honor him as my 2025 Veteran of the Year.”