Local WWII Veteran Celebrates 100th Birthday

by Kate Berube

Etta Piechota, resident of Good Samaritan Nursing and Rehab Facility, turned 100 on Saturday, October 16, 2021. While this alone is a landmark achievement, Etta was also a member of the services from 1943 to 1945 making her World War ll Veteran. During the war, Etta was stationed at Mitchell Field and served as an Operator for the Information Center. Because of her previous hairdressing skills, she also provided haircuts to the military. She received the Army’s Good Conduct Medal for her exemplary performance and the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corp Service Ribbon in recognition of her fidelity and service. Etta was born and raised in Ridgewood, NY and went on to raise her two daughters in Riverhead after the war. To date she is the proud and doting grandmother of six grandsons and seven great grandchildren.

To mark this auspicious occasion, Good Samaritan and Sayville VFW Post 433 hosted a birthday celebration on the grounds of Good Sam to honor Etta and her remarkable contributions to our country. Etta was surrounded by family and friends, as she was presented with a Proclamation from Senator Alexis Weik, a Certificate of Commendation from the VFW Post 433 Commander Bill Borthwick, as well as a Town of Islip Citation from Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter and Councilman James P. O’Connor. Additionally, Joseph Costa, CAO of Good Samaritan with help from Congressman Andrew Garbarino gifted Etta an American flag that had flown over the Capitol.

Thank you for your service Etta, we hope you had a wonderful birthday.