Throughout this upcoming July 4th holiday weekend, we'll be expressing our patriotism and celebrating American independence -- which means that we'll be remembering and thanking all of our veterans, past and present, for their sacrifice and service.

With that in mind, congratulations to one of the region's most well-known veterans, William "Doc" Schmitz of Corning, who's been named the New York Department Commander of the state Veterans of Foreign Wars.  

Read more in The Leader, "'Doc' Schmitz named to state's top VFW post"

Earlier this year, I was grateful to have the opportunity to pay tribute to another prominent area veteran, Anthony J. "Tony" Specchio of Watkins Glen, who was inducted into the state Senate Veterans Hall of Fame.