On sunday, September 22, 2025, Staten Island came together in solemn remembrance for the POW/MIA Memorial Service hosted with the Vietnam Veterans of America – Thomas Tori, Chapter 421. it is a memorial service that is held each year on the sunday following the 3rd Friday in september. The ceremony was followed by a heartfelt reception across the street at Tom Crimmins Realty, where community, conversation, and reflection continued.

POW/MIA memorial event photo

Honoring Those Who Never Came Home

The POW/MIA Memorial Service exists to remind us that while wars may end, the stories of those who never returned home remain unfinished. Across America, more than 81,000 service members are still listed as Missing in Action (MIA) — their families waiting, hoping, and carrying a wound that time cannot fully heal. The absence of closure is its own heavy sacrifice, and ceremonies like this give families, friends, and communities a chance to say: “You are not forgotten.”

About Chapter 421 & the Vietnam War

The Vietnam Veterans of America – Thomas Tori, Chapter 421, has long been a cornerstone of Staten Island’s veteran community. Named in honor of Thomas Tori, a Staten Island native who gave his life in Vietnam, the chapter is dedicated to ensuring that the sacrifices of Vietnam veterans are never forgotten. The Vietnam War claimed the lives of over 58,000 American service members, and countless more returned home carrying both visible and invisible wounds. For families of those still listed as Prisoners of War (POW) or Missing in Action (MIA), the war has never truly ended. Chapter 421 continues to stand as a living reminder of service, sacrifice, and the ongoing need for remembrance, support, and advocacy for all veterans and their loved ones. 

 


POW/MIA memorial event photo

Staten Island: A Community That Remembers

Staten Island has always been a borough rooted in respect for its veterans. From memorials to scholarships, parades to community events, Staten Islanders continually show up to honor the men and women who sacrificed for our freedom. This service was no different — neighbors, families, and veterans themselves filled the space, united by remembrance.


Community Support & Generosity

The memorial service was made possible not only by dedicated organizers but also by generous local sponsors. We extend our sincere gratitude to:

  • Suzanne & Tom Crimmins of Tom Crimmins Realty, LTD.

  • Larry Ambrosino & Anthony Focca of Think Mortgage

  • Peter & Graig Martin of Martin & Martin Attorneys at Law

  • Dr. Joanna Tricorache (Dentistry)

And to our food donors: Jimmy Max, Beyar’s Market, and Pizza Parlor, whose contributions carried the spirit of community, hospitality, and remembrance.


POW/MIA memorial event photo

Reception at Tom Crimmins Realty

After the ceremony, the gathering across the street at Tom Crimmins Realty offered a chance for everyone to come together in fellowship. The reception was filled with food, laughter, and heartfelt conversation — veterans sharing stories, families reconnecting, and neighbors showing their support. What began as a solemn tribute gave way to a sense of community and gratitude, reminding us that remembrance is not only about honoring sacrifice, but also about celebrating the bonds we share here on Staten IslandIt was a powerful reminder that while we honor the sacrifices of the past, we also heal and move forward together — as one community, united in gratitude and respect for our veterans and their families.

 A Legacy of Giving Back

Suzanne and Tom Crimmins have always believed that true service to Staten Island goes beyond business — it means giving back in ways both big and small. Their commitment to veterans was on full display not just in organizing and hosting the reception following the ceremony, but also in the quiet details leading up to the ceremony. In fact, Tom was seen on his hands and knees de-weeding the memorial site to ensure it looked its very best. It was a small act, but one that spoke volumes: a hands-on dedication to honoring veterans with the dignity and respect they deserve. Whether through sponsorships, community events, or simple gestures of care, the Crimmins family continues to show that service is at the heart of everything they do.


Closing Thoughts

The POW/MIA Memorial Service is more than a date on the calendar. It is a promise — a promise that we will not forget, that we will honor, and that we will carry the stories forward. Staten Island once again proved that it stands strong in support of its veterans, ensuring their sacrifices are never overlooked.


Below, you’ll find photos from this powerful day of remembrance and community.

Posted by Tom Crimmins Realty on

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