Carmel, NY – On Sunday, November 5, County Executive Kevin Byrne and Deputy County Executive Jim Burpoe were among the 85 volunteers supporting Guardian Revival’s 9^th annual Veterans Chow Down. The appreciation dinner honored 176 Veterans who each brought a guest for a total of 352 individuals in attendance for a free meal. The event featured a 'military history and memorabilia museum' provided by the Benedict Family from 'The Duffle Bag' in Patterson. Meals were served by groups of youth volunteers including the US Naval Sea Cadets Corps, Iwo Jima (LHD 7) Division, and the Putnam County Sheriff’s Cadets.

“We owe our those men and women who served our country an immense debt that we will never be able to repay. But that should not prevent us from trying. Giving back in just a small way, providing a free meal, volunteering, can make a big impact,” said County Executive Kevin Byrne. “Thank you to all those who attended, all the generous sponsors who made the event happen, and all the volunteers who took time from their weekend to support our Veterans.”

County Executive Byrne played the bagpipes as he did at the inaugural Chow Down in 2014.  Also in attendance were Congressman Mike Lawler, State Senator Pete Harckham, State Senator Rob Rolison, and Assemblyman Matt Slater.