City Of Tonawanda – Today, July 27, 2022, New York State Assemblyman Bill Conrad announced that he has secured $16,000 in state funding for American Legion Post 264, which will use the grant to make capital upgrades to both its building on Main Street and Veterans Memorial Park, and to enhance its communications.

The veterans post in downtown Tonawanda urgently needs a new sign for its façade. It would replace an existing sign, which is aging and in deteriorating condition, and increase the streetside visibility of the post.

Post 264 will also put the money toward a new sign for the entrance to Veterans Memorial Park on Niagara Street.

Finally, the funding will go toward the launch of a written communications effort, centered around mental healthcare for veterans and suicide prevention.

Assemblyman Bill Conrad said, “I have tremendous respect for the brave men and women who have served our country, and I want to do everything I can as an elected representative to support our veterans, both legislatively and budgetarily. The American Legion is one key organization that provides former service members a life-affirming social network and help accessing the resources they deserve. I want Post 264 to have a facility that meets members’ standards and affords them the best opportunity to serve one another effectively. I also applaud the post’s commitment to upgrading Vets Park – a signature memorial site on the mighty Niagara River – and to sharing information about veterans’ mental wellness. Veterans sacrificed so much for the protection of American freedom and security, and for many, the toll of combat is felt long after their return to civilian life. It is no small thing, when their fellow veterans reach out to them to say, ‘You’re not alone, and help is available.’ I am proud to extend tangible assistance to American Legion Post 264, so it can continue its invaluable work.”

American Legion Post 264 Commander Dan Misner said, “We who feel compelled to serve our fellow veterans know that American Legion Posts aren’t just buildings; they are places of connection and healing. Post 264 offers us a place all our own, where we can gather, share our experiences, and reach our brothers and sisters who may need extra help, whether emotionally, medically, or financially. Here, we find the friendship and understanding that sustain us. We thank Assemblyman Conrad for this grant, which will fund three important goals we’ve had. Support like this is so important to veterans and posts like ours, as it is an expression of appreciation for all that we have given to our country, and it bolsters our everlasting mission of giving veterans comfort, fellowship and hope.”