Massena veterans recognized during Veterans Day ceremony
Massena’s Disabled American Veterans Chapter 171 and VFW Post 1143 held a Veterans Day ceremony at the VFW post on Nov. 11, 2026, recognizing military veterans.
By Caleb Mercer, ClickNNY North Country Desk
Massena’s Disabled American Veterans Chapter 171 and VFW Post 1143 held a Veterans Day ceremony at VFW Post 1143 on Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026, recognizing veterans and honoring those who served in the military.
DAV Chapter Commander Fred Cockayne served as the guest speaker. He said the ceremony recognized men and women who had worn the nation’s uniform and emphasized that veterans from different branches and generations had answered a call to serve something larger than themselves.
The ceremony included members of the VFW honor guard saluting during Taps. Past VFW Post 1143 commander Vern Drew and current commander Steven O’Brien also saluted during the National Anthem.
Army veteran Sam Juan was named the 2026 Disabled American Veteran of the Year. The award was presented during the 2026 DAV and Auxiliary National Convention in Orlando, Florida, held Aug. 1-4, 2026.
Massena’s Veterans Memorial Park hosts the village’s Veterans Day parade ending and Memorial Day ceremonies. The park was revamped and rededicated for Memorial Day 2026.
Reported by ClickNNY and reviewed by an editor before publication.
More from ClickNNY
Guides and features from across the North Country.
ClickNNY Featured · Health
Lighter for a Season, or Healthier for a Lifetime?
A new FDA eye warning, a steep monthly price and research on what happens after the shots stop are sharpening one question for North Country families using GLP-1 drugs: are the changes going to last?
ClickNNY Special Report · Politics
He Won. Then He Opened His Mouth. Will Anyone Work With Him?
Anthony Constantino's NY-21 victory speech made the North Country a late-night joke. Now he has to work with the people he insulted, in a Congress his party doesn't control.
ClickNNY Community Spotlight
More Than a Salesman: Kyle Kolyer Recognized for His Work, Faith and Commitment to Others
From helping customers at Davidson Ford in Watertown to serving at Covenant Church in Black River, Kyle Kolyer is building a life centered on hard work, relationships and his faith in Jesus Christ.