POUGHKEEPSIE, NY (May 27, 2026) – Senator Rob Rolison yesterday honored SPC Nathan Grant as the 2026 New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame inductee representing the 39th Senate District during a special ceremony in Albany recognizing his military service, leadership and decades of dedication to fellow veterans and the Hudson Valley community.

A proud U.S. Army Vietnam veteran, Grant served as a tunnel rat during the Vietnam War, one of the military’s most dangerous combat assignments. Following his service overseas, Grant made the Hudson Valley his home and became a tireless advocate for veterans. Known throughout the region as “Nate the Great,” he serves as Commander and Life Member of American Legion Lafayette Post 37 in Poughkeepsie and is also a Life Member of VFW Post 170. Through those roles, he has spent years organizing food distributions, holiday drives and weekly “Burger Burn” fundraisers to support local veterans and families in need.

Grant also maintains the Hero Garden memorial, participates in Wreaths Across America programming in local schools and continues to educate younger generations about the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces. In 2025, he was honored by Weekend for Warriors for his leadership and ongoing service and was previously recognized by WPDH as a “Vet Who Rocks.”

“SPC Nate Grant represents the very best of our veteran community and our Hudson Valley community as a whole,” said Rob Rolison. “His bravery in combat, combined with his lifelong commitment to supporting fellow veterans and giving back to others, makes him exceptionally deserving of this recognition. Whether he’s organizing support for veterans, maintaining memorials or speaking to students about service and sacrifice, Nate leads with humility, compassion and heart.”

The New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame was created to honor and recognize outstanding veterans from across New York State who have distinguished themselves both in military and civilian life.