Tribute and Honor Foundation Presents First of This Year’s Farnan Scholarships

At a ceremony held at Locust Valley’s American Legion Post 962, the Tribute and Honor Foundation awarded a $1,000 check to Locust Valley High School senior and future U.S. Marine Ricardo Moran-Cruz, one of three recipients of Ben Farnan Scholarships. L-R: Marine SSgt Eric Brouillet, Locust Valley Principal Patrick J. DiClemente, Scholarship Recipient Ricardo Moran-Cruz, Korean War Veteran Ben Farnan, and Tribute and Honor Foundation President Gaitley Stevenson-Mathews.

Locust Valley, NY – The Tribute and Honor Foundation proudly presented the first of three Ben Farnan Scholarships this past Sunday in a heartfelt ceremony held at the Howard A. Van Wagner 962 American Legion Post in Locust Valley. The $1,000 scholarship was awarded to Ricardo Antonio Moran-Cruz, a senior at Locust Valley High School who will soon begin service with the United States Marine Corps.

The scholarship, established in honor of Ben Farnan—a Korean War veteran, former Commander of Glen Cove’s VFW Post 347, and recipient of the Foundation’s 2022 Legacy Award—recognizes students who demonstrate outstanding achievement and a commitment to serving our country.

“We established the Farnan Scholarships to pay tribute to Ben’s remarkable legacy and to uplift students who reflect the very values he has stood for throughout his life,” said Gaitley Stevenson-Mathews, President of the Tribute and Honor Foundation. “Ricardo’s dedication, character, and sense of duty make him a most deserving recipient. We are proud to stand beside him as he takes this next step in service to our nation.”

The program began with an opening prayer by Chaplain Evelyn Kandel of the Locust Valley Post and a presentation of the Pledge of Allegiance, led by post commanders from across Long Island. The scholarship was formally presented following remarks from several dignitaries, including Locust Valley High School Principal Patrick J. DiClemente, who spoke of Ricardo’s strong leadership and sense of purpose.

“Ricardo is an exceptional student and an inspiration to all who know him,” said Principal DiClemente. “His commitment to serve our nation speaks volumes about his character. We are immensely proud of him and grateful to the Tribute and Honor Foundation for recognizing his achievements.”

SSgt. Eric Brouillet, Ricardo's recruiting officer from the U.S. Marine Corps, also addressed the crowd and emphasized the promising future ahead.

Among the speakers was Ben Farnan himself, who attended the ceremony and offered words as the scholarship’s namesake. Reflecting on the moment, he shared, “In visiting with Ricardo and his family, it was clear to me that he holds dear the same values we fought to protect. I’m honored to see this scholarship awarded to such a deserving young man and confident he’ll carry those values forward with strength and integrity.”

Among those in attendance were community leaders, family members of the scholarship recipient, many friends, and veterans from Locust Valley and surrounding communities. Also present were Tribute and Honor Foundation board members: President Gaitley Stevenson-Mathews, Secretary Angelina Stanco-Stone, Community Engagement Officer Mike Gadaleta, and Programming and Events Officer Koorosh Leibowitz. Liaison members for the Foundation who were in attendance included Howard Stillwagon, Commander of Glen Cove VFW Post 347, and Dr. Maxine Mayreis, President of the Glen Cove Chamber of Commerce.

The event was hosted by the Howard A. Van Wagner Post 962 American Legion in Locust Valley, which also extended its warm hospitality, including a shared meal following the program. Other veteran posts represented at the event included Glen Cove American Legion Post 76, the James E. Donahue VFW Post 347 in Glen Cove, and the American Legion Robert H. Spittel Post 1285 in Bayville.

As Stevenson-Mathews noted in closing: “It’s in moments like these—celebrating those who serve and those who support—that we’re reminded of the strength and unity in our communities.”

The Tribute and Honor Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to honoring Long Island veterans and supporting future leaders. To learn more, including information on the Foundation’s Annual Awards Ceremony, history of service, and support opportunities, visit www.TributeAndHonorFoundation.org.