Supervisor Joseph Saladino and his colleagues on the Oyster Bay Town Board recently presented the Town of Oyster Bay Martin Luther King, Jr. Distinguished Service Award to retired United States Army Staff Sergeant Arturo Jerome Edwards of Farmingdale for his service to the nation and community.
“The Town’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Distinguished Service Award is presented to noteworthy recipients in recognition of their outstanding leadership and achievement, adherence to the principals of a just society and continued involvement in support of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr’s Dream,” said Saladino. “Our diversity is our strength and this prestigious recognition reflects upon the incredible leadership and courage of Martin Luther King, Jr., and also on the local contributions being made every day in our community by extraordinary people.”
Edwards served in the United States Army for two years, and 16 years active in the United States Army Reserve. He achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant E-6. He served 18 months in Vietnam from May of 1966 to November of 1967. Edwards later became a member of New York’s finest, and served with distinction as a New York City Police Officer.
“Arturo’s serve to our nation and our community didn’t end with his tour of duty,” added Councilwoman Vicki Walsh. “He has been very involved in our community as a distinguished veteran’s advocate and is an active member of AMVETS Post 21, VFW Post 5942, and the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 82. He is dedicated to the service of his fellow Americans and truly represents the gold standard of community service. The foundation for a healthy community and freedoms we cherish are dependent upon the leadership of people like retired Staff Sergeant Arturo Jerome Edwards.”
