Gilberg’s Desire to Salute Our Veterans Succeeds

by: Bill Liblick

When County Clerk Neil Gilberg was a Councilman in Fallsburg, Ralph Berger came to a town meeting and said that he felt Francis Currey had not been honored properly and asked that the town to look into it.

Gilberg listened intently and learned all he could about our war hero. He was impressed to say the least.  

It turns out Currey, a Sullivan County native, is a decorated World War II combat veteran who has been memorialized as the first Medal of Honor G.I. Joe Action Figure. 

Gilberg agreed with Berger’s unease that Currey was not properly honored, so he decided to call him and ask if the Town of Fallsburg could pay tribute to him. Honor him they did him with a parade along Hurleyville featuring the Jimmy Sturr orchestra.

The event began to take on a life on to its own, with the celebration growing each year. The annual salute was moved to Morningside Park including military equipment, rides for kids, featuring entertainment featuring The Drifters and a gala fireworks display.

It became County Clerk Gilberg’s belief that the annual event could be utilized as a means to pay tribute to all Sullivan County Veterans using the Francis Currey name and legacy as its launching pad.

Last year along with Currey, honored were what was deemed the “Greatest Generation” as well as the men and women currently serving in the military.

This year’s event, which will be held Sunday at Morningside Park will pay tribute to all of Sullivan County’s Vietnam Veterans, as well as those who are and have served in the armed forces.

All Sullivan County residents should join in the activities and pay tribute to those who have and continually risked their lives for us.

Currey is elated that his name is being used to honor all veterans. He arrived Wednesday in Sullivan County prepared for several days of activities that began yesterday at the Racino.

Ryan Stigell who served 14 months in Iraq and returned with several medals for bravery under combat conditions will also be saluted during Sunday’s event.

The day long tribute will be highlighted by a special ceremony at 2 pm. With entertainment featured throughout the day.

Patti Greco, Sunshine Trio, the Mickey Barnett Band, Sullivan Steppers, comedy juggler Chris Ivey, followed by the cast of Beatlemania are all scheduled to perform followed by a huge fireworks exhibition.

Gilberg told me that he would like to see Sullivan County play host to a month long celebration saluting our veterans kicking off with an Independence Day event. He said he envisions holding activities each weekend, such as an air show and war reenactment, all leading up to the Currey weekend. Anyone who knows Neil Gilberg knows that he will be successful with this endeavor.

For now, let us all salute Francis Currey and all of our Veterans this Sunday at Morningside Park. It is an event that should be attended by all Sullivan County residents.

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