Shelter Island and military service: Reporter Forum to examine tradition, current volunteers, needs of veterans

If you go to the Wilson Traffic Circle (named for U.S. Marine Sergeant James Wilson Jr., killed in Vietnam) in the Center you’ll see a striking example of Shelter Island’s commitment to military service. The large boulder on which a bronze eagle is perched, wings spread to take flight, lists the names of Islanders killed in action in wars from the Civil War and beyond.

That tradition of military service continues today. The latest Reporter Community Forum, scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 5 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Presbyterian Church’s Fellowship Hall, with a distinguished panel and moderated by Charity Robey, will address the state of that tradition today; the needs of veterans here; the condition of the American Legion Mitchell Post 281’s facilities; and how the Island can better serve those who have worn the uniform of the United States.

Suffolk County is home to the largest population of veterans in New York State and has one of the largest veterans’ populations of any county in the United States. 

There is much to celebrate — the Island has always venerated its veterans and done much to help those who struggle — but much to mourn: A 2025 report from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs found there are about 18 veteran suicides per day. Many veterans live in poverty and are in need of critical medical and physiological resources. These and other issues will be discussed at the Nov. 5 Forum sponsored by Suffolk Security Systems, Attorney at Law Sandra V. Saiegh, and Mattituck Environmental Services. The event is free and all are welcome.

Ms. Robey will pose questions to the panel and then the floor will be open to the audience for questions and comments.

The panel consists of: Michael ‘Zack’ Mundy, Commander of the Shelter Island American Legion Mitchell Unit #281; Laurene Silvani, Shelter Island resident and U.S. Navy veteran; 1st District Suffolk County Legislator Greg Doroski; James “Jimbo” Theinert, creator with his family of the Theinert Strongpoint Ranch, which has programs structured to meet specific needs for veterans to help them heal from the emotional wounds they have endured and Gold Star family members who have lost a loved one to war; and Karen Sibert Haddy, retired anesthesiologist and a veteran of the U.S. Army Reserve.

Please join us for this important community discussion slated for Thursday, Nov. 5 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Presbyterian Church’s Fellowship Hall.