On Wednesday, September 7th, 2016, Councilman Wehrheim hosted his annual BBQ at The Watermill in Smithtown. About 255 supporters came out for delicious Barbecue, live entertainment and one spectacular raffle for a truly noble cause. The sun finally came out after a day of rain, as the Doo Wop Sensations; All Good Friends, played while 255 Smithtown residents ascended on the Watermill’s private Patio and gardens, all in the name of Charity.
As guest arrived, they immediately purchased raffle tickets for a number of incredible prizes, including two collectible NY Jets & NY Giants jerseys and a massive 40” Flat Screen Smart TV, paid for out of pocket by the Councilman. Each year, Competition BMW of Smithtown donates a $1500 Bike and Modells donates gift cards for the raffle. Collectively, the raffle generated $2,000 to help U.S. Military Veterans.
“It is truly a privilege to be able to assist local Vietnam Veterans, who like myself, served in a divisive war because it was our duty. Only to come home and be spat on. Today, the world is much more aware of the sacrifices we made for the love of this Country. Today, we honor our Iraq and Afghanistan War soldiers when they come home. We take action when they need our help. Let us not forget those men who I fought alongside of, who were not privy to the PTSD support, efficient health care and legal counsel available today. You’re all a part of the solution in assuring no man is ever left behind and I thank you as a friend, neighbor and Vietnam Veteran.” – Councilman Ed Wehrheim
As a Vietnam Veteran himself, Councilman Ed Wehrheim has made a point to assure no U.S. Veteran goes unnoticed. Every year, he hand picks a special charity to raise money for and donates proceeds from his annual soiree to a Veteran-based group. This year, Councilman Wehrheim chose the Vietnam Veterans of America Suffolk County Chapter 11. Before the evening’s end, the Councilman presented a $2000 check to the organization, which will go toward providing legal aid through the Suffolk County Veterans Court, presided over by St. James native, Hon. Jack Toomey.
About the Vietnam Veterans of America Suffolk County Chapter 11
To the Vietnam Veterans of America Suffolk County Chapter 11 serves to help foster, encourage and improve the quality of life and conditions of Vietnam Veterans. The organization serves to eliminate discrimination, develop public policy proposals to improve the quality of life for Vietnam Veterans from providing employment and education opportunities to assisting disabled and needy military veterans, their dependents, widows and orphans.
The Suffolk County Veterans Court provides access to treatment, counseling, case management, supportive housing and other services. The Court works closely with the Northport VA to give US Military Veterans a chance to address health and mental conditions or issues, to avoid incarceration for current charges.