Veteran Awards
Honoring Our Heroes
Celebrating Veterans' Achievements
Join us in recognizing the continuing contributions our Veterans have made in our community.
Celebrating Excellence
For over 25 years, the Veterans Day Parade Committee has proudly hosted the annual Veteran of the Year & Distinguished Veteran program. This year, we are excited to collaborate with V.F.W. Post 584 of Albany.
Veteran of the Year
This is awarded to a Veteran for continued service to the local community.
Distinguished Veteran
This is awarded to a Veteran who has exhibited exemplary service to their nation throughout their time in the military.
Visit the V.F.W.'s website for more information and to download nomination forms. Forms are due by 9/1/25 at 6 PM!
2025 Award Winners
We’re proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Veteran of the Year and Distinguished Veteran awards. These individuals have demonstrated exceptional service and dedication to their community and country.
Veteran of the Year
Michael R. Aaron, U.S. Marine Corps
Distinguished Veterans
Caitlyn Bilodeau, U.S. Army
Nicole White, U.S. Army
Previous Award Winners
2024 Veteran of the Year: Mark D. Lamberty, U.S. Army
2024 Distinguished Veteran: Melvin "Mel" Yeager, U.S. Army
2024 Distinguished Veteran: Gene Hellman, U.S. Air Force
2023 Veteran of the Year: Robert Gore, U.S. Army
2023 Distinguished Veteran: Michael R. Aaron, U.S. Marine Corps
2023 Distinguished Veteran: Michael J. Martin
2023 Distinguished Veteran: Michael L. Cossey
2022 Veteran of the Year: David Solomon
Join the Parade
Would you like to have an entry in the Veterans Day Parade? We welcome you to join us in celebrating America's Heroes.
To participate, visit our Sign Up page. There is a small fee to participate, but if you're a Veterans Organization, there is no cost to you. If you need assistance in completing the form, please contact us.