A solemn Memorial Day ceremony will be held to honor three local heroes – US Army Sgt. Nathan Michael Higginbotham, US Army Sgt. Raymond W. Warlikowski Jr., and US Coast Guard EM3 David

T. Miller – whose names will be added to the Veterans Monument at ViaPort Rotterdam Mall.

When: Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 11:00 AM

Where: Veterans Monument, ViaPort Rotterdam Mall,93 W Campbell Rd, Schenectady, NY 12306

This ceremony coincides with the traditional observance of Memorial Day on May 30, a day dedicated to honoring the men and women who have given their life in military service to our country.

The event will feature the unveiling of the names of three distinguished veterans:

• Sgt. Nathan Michael Higginbotham

A Schenectady native and graduate of Schenectady High School, Sgt. Higginbotham served in Iraq in 2011. He was serving with the U.S. Army at Ft. Wainwright, Alaska, when he tragically passed away on January 31, 2016.

• Sgt. Raymond W. Warlikowski Jr.

Originally from Port Jefferson, NY and a graduate of Schuylerville High School, Sgt. Warlikowski served with distinction in the U.S. Army, with deployments in Germany, Bosnia, Korea, and four tours in Iraq and Afghanistan before retiring in 2014. He passed away on August 28, 2016, in Melbourne, Florida. His service and sacrifice are deeply meaningful to his own Gold Star Mother who is active member of the Rotterdam Elks Lodge.

• EM3 David Miller

Rotterdam resident, David Miller served with the United States Coast Guard and the United States Air National Guard during the Iraq War.

The ceremony will be attended by Gold Star mothers Kimberley Vandenburg and Jean Kirschenhiter, mothers of Sgt. Higginbotham and Sgt. Warlikowski, respectively.

Members of the press, local officials, veterans, and community members are invited to join in honoring the service and sacrifice of these brave individuals.