Richard Makuch

A Dunkirk man has been recognized for his decades of service to the Disabled American Veterans organization.

Last month, Richard Makuch received the citation noting his “dedication to the veterans of New York, past, present and future. Makuch is part of the Charles Tinley Memorial Post Chapter 142 of the DAV on Talcott Street in the city.

Makuch, a former city police officer, councilman, is a U.S. Navy veteran who served during the Korean War. He has been a longtime advocate for area veterans.

Disabled American Veterans Department of New York is “dedicated to a single purpose: empowering veterans to lead high-quality lives with respect and dignity. We accomplish this by ensuring that veterans and their families can access the full range of benefits to them: fighting for the interests of America’s heroes on Capitol Hill and educating the public about great sacrifices and needs of veterans transitioning back to civilian life.”