Deputy Presiding Officer Kara Hahn has named Michelle Puleo of Port Jefferson Station as the 2021 Woman Veteran of Distinction for the Fifth Legislative District.
Puleo is a former member of the United States Air Force who proudly served this nation from 1988 through 1992 as a C-130 aircraft engine mechanic. Her tenure includes service in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm while also earning the Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal and Air Force Training Ribbon.
Following her active-duty military career, Michelle remained committed to serving the Nation by enlisting in the Illinois Air National Reserve and the Illinois Air National Guard while pursuing a Nursing degree. In the quarter century since completing her education, Puleo has continued to serve her community through her work in a variety of hospital specialties including Labor & Delivery, Pediatrics and Telemetry. Since 2015, Puleo has been a nurse at Paul J. Gelinas Junior High School in the Three Village School District.
In recognition of the contributions to our nation and local communities, Suffolk County has designated June 12th of each year as Women Veterans’ Appreciation Day during which one former service member from each Legislative District is recognized.
Photo: Suffolk County Legislator Kara Hahn (right) presents a proclamation to Michelle Puleo, RN, BSN of Port Jefferson Station in recognition of being named the 2021 Woman Veteran of Distinction for the Fifth Legislative District.