New Museum Wing Honors America’s Heroes

A stunning collection of military history is drawing enthusiastic crowds to the newly expanded VFW Post 6249 Suffolk County World War II and Military History Museum in Rocky Point, where exhibits bring generations of American service and sacrifice to life.

“We get the ‘Wow’ effect, especially from veterans when they first come in,” said Joe Cognitore, a Vietnam veteran awarded the Bronze Star with a “V” for Valor, whose vision helped establish the museum.

The impressive new wing features extensive displays highlighting Hollywood celebrities, professional athletes, and elected officials who served in the military.

“What it shows you is they were average people who did amazing things,” said museum curator Richard Acritelli, a military historian, educator, and Army Reserve veteran who spearheaded the expansion.

Among those featured are actors Jimmy Stewart, Kirk Douglas, and Jack Nicholson, along with sports legends Ted Williams, Yogi Berra, and Roger Staubach.

The exhibits illustrate how Americans from vastly different backgrounds answered their country’s call, often setting aside successful careers to serve.

Other displays explore the history of Camp Upton, the sprawling military installation at today’s Brookhaven National Laboratory that trained soldiers during World War I and served as an induction and rehabilitation center during World War II.

Additional collections examine the Holocaust, major American military conflicts, Medal of Honor recipients, and Gold Star families who lost loved ones in service.

Acritelli emphasized that much of the museum’s remarkable collection comes from Long Islanders who donated family heirlooms, uniforms, photographs, and military artifacts.

Students from Rocky Point High School also contributed, helping prepare displays and preserve stories for future generations.

The expansion builds upon a museum originally envisioned by Cognitore and developed through substantial community support, including donated land, construction, and countless volunteer hours.

For visitors, the result is more than an impressive collection of memorabilia. It’s an opportunity to appreciate the extraordinary sacrifices made by everyday Americans.