Families of War Vets elects new leaders

Chester — The Families of War Vets recently elected new leaders to run its board of directors. Chester Town Supervisor Steve Neuhaus was elected president of the organization. Besides serving as Chester’s executive, Neuhaus also serves as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy Reserves as a Seabee. Kevin Grundig was elected vice-president of the organization. He is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and is the president of GSI Staffing and Consulting of Mahwah, N.J. Frank “Bear” Bair was elected treasurer and is a combat veteran of the Vietnam War serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. The organization was formed to provide a support system for the Mid-Hudson Valley families of military personnel killed while fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as wounded military personnel and their families. It renders whatever assistance it can to returning veterans, while supporting their families, so that they may be able to make an easier transition to civilian life. While originally started to aid veterans of current the wars, it has increasingly been called to aid veterans of all wars. The organization has been instrumental in helping dozens of Hudson Valley Families who often have nowhere else to turn for help. The organization’s founder and former president, Ray McCarthy, will remain as an active member of the board of directors. Neuhaus said, “I am honored to take the helm of this important organization. There is nothing more rewarding than to help out a veteran or a veteran’s family. They gave their all for us and we owe them our all. I look forward to continuing the organization’s mission.” For more information on the organization or how to help visit www.familiesofwarvets.org.