Nassau VFW Leader, Decorated Veteran John Baptisto Fiore Dead At 73

GLEN COVE, NY — A Glen Cove Vietnam veteran who dedicated his time to leading veteran groups in Nassau County and helping less fortunate veterans died on New Year's Eve at age 73, his obituary said.

John Baptisto Fiore was the commander at Port Washington's VFW Post 1819, and also headed the Nassau County VFW Council.

"John's leadership and inspiring personality will never be forgotten," the Council posted after Fiore's passing.

Fiore was a Queens native who earned an Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Combat Medal and National Defense Medal while serving in Vietnam.

Fiore, described in his obituary as a "serious, respectful leader" officiated as a volunteer chaplain at graveside services for indigent veterans, and took their folded flags home, saying no veteran should die alone.