On Tuesday, June 18, the Tribute and Honor Foundation proudly presented the 2024 Ben Farnan Scholarships to Mark LaRocca and Ruben Martinez, graduates of Glen Cove High School.

These exceptional young men, dedicated to serving their country by joining the military, each received $1,000 in scholarships from the Foundation, honoring their patriotism, dedication, and outstanding achievements.

The students were the first recipients of the award, which was established in 2023.

“When I suggested we create a scholarship and name it for Ben Farnan, there was no question in anyone’s mind that it was the thing to do. Ben is a pillar of our community, a dedicated veteran, and an inspiring educator,” said Gaitley Stevenson-Mathews, president of the Tribute and Honor Foundation. “I am incredibly proud of our board for committing to establish the scholarship, and I could not be more proud of the two young men being honored.”

As keynote speaker, Farnan shared his profound war experiences and lifelong dedication to service. He emphasized the importance of supporting young individuals like Mark and Ruben, who are about to embark on their military careers. “I am deeply impressed by Mark and Ruben, not only for their commitment to serve our nation but also for their outstanding character and achievements,” he remarked.

Mark LaRocca, a dual graduate of Glen Cove High School and Nassau BOCES Barry Technical High School, distinguished himself as an honors student and a dedicated athlete. He participated in numerous extracurricular activities and enlisted in the U.S. Navy through the Delayed Entry Program (DEP) in the summer of 2023.

Ruben Martinez, a Glen Cove High School graduate, excelled in sports and community service. Inspired by a family friend, he decided to join the Marines and will begin boot camp at Parris Island in August.

His involvement in various school clubs and community programs has shaped his commitment to service.

The ceremony featured several notable speakers, including Glen Cove High School principal Allen Hudson, Assistant Superintendent Andrew DiNapoli, and Glen Cove EOC Program Director Irma Jeanty.

The event was marked by a strong sense of community. Veteran liaison members, including VFW Post 347 Vice Commander Howard Stillwagon and Glenwood Landing American Legion Post 336 Commander Luke Whitting, led the opening prayer, closing blessings, and the Pledge of Allegiance.

First Vice President Connie Pinilla and other board members present, including Secretary Angelina Stanco-Stone, Treasurer Thomas Bunger, and Online and Media Content Officer Lydia Wen Rodgers, assisted Stevenson-Mathews in presenting the scholarships.

Many of the foundation’s Liaison Members also attended, adding to the event’s significance.

The Tribute and Honor Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has distinguished itself through its Annual Awards Ceremony and Gala, honoring Long Island veterans and veteran supporters, as well as through its ongoing support of veterans and veteran initiatives.

For more information on the foundation, including the upcoming announcement event and press conference on September 8th at the North Shore Historical Museum, the Awards Ceremony held annually on the first Saturday in February, and support opportunities,

The foundation is already accepting sponsors for the Fourth Annual Awards Ceremony and Fundraising Gala on February 1st of next year. 

The Tribute and Honor Foundation thanked everyone who made the event possible, including Awards Ceremony sponsors, sustaining members, and volunteers.

Special thanks were given to Pastor Jerry Turner and the congregation of Salem Baptist Church for providing the venue.