The Oneida Indian Nation hosted its 20th Annual Veterans Breakfast at Turning Stone earlier this month to give thanks to hundreds of local veterans.

At this year’s event, we recognized more than 400 local veterans, including many of our employees who are veterans.

The breakfast is an opportunity not only to celebrate the veterans who work with us, but also to fete the many veterans who live and work in the surrounding area.

The morning perfectly encapsulated how our commitment to veterans is part of our ethos.

Oneida Indian Nation Representative and CEO of Oneida Nation Enterprises Ray Halbritter, Fort Drum Garrison Commander Col. James J. Zacchino Jr., and New York State Assembly Member Pamela Hunter, delivered remarks at the breakfast. Each of the speakers discussed the special relationship between the Oneida Indian Nation and the United States Military and expressed their deep appreciation to all veterans for their service.

Mr. Halbritter noted that the Oneida Indian Nation has supported the military for generations, and said it remains deeply committed to honoring and supporting our veterans today.

“As the United States’ first allies, the Oneida Indian Nation forged a sacred bond with colonists during the Revolutionary War,” he told the crowd that gathered in a Turning Stone Resort Casino ballroom for lunch. “This interminable bond continued throughout the years as Oneidas have enlisted in all conflicts since those early and modest beginnings.”

We work tirelessly throughout the year with the veteran community to show our gratitude. Today and always, we truly are thankful for their service.