Field of Heroes Clinic Supports Youth And Our Veterans

On Sunday, August 27th, Senator Mario R. Mattera and Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim hosted the Second Annual Field Of Heroes free baseball and softball clinic for girls and boys ages 6-18 so they could hone their craft with former Major League Baseball stars, softball legends, and local school coaches.

The event was sponsored by local businesses and organizations including free food and refreshments provided by Heros For Our Heroes, founded by Donato Panico and Gerard Leonard. Everyone who attended met former MLB players who inspired youth participants at various stations throughout the day. The opening ceremony was tributed to American heroes on the field and named in honor of Daniel J. Flynn, a member of the 725th Military Police Battalion, C Company, who was killed in action during the Vietnam War. All proceeds from the sponsors will be for the renovation of the Community Living Center courtyard at the Northport VA Medical Center.

“It was my absolute pleasure to host the Second Annual Field of Heroes Youth Clinic with Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim this past Sunday which benefited the renovation of the Community Living Center courtyard at the Northport VA Medical Center,” said Senator Mario R. Mattera. “This day connects kids to the richness of America's favorite sports - baseball and softball - and the great outdoors while also teaching future generations the importance of supporting our veterans,” continued Mattera.

“I’m proud to be part of this great community event with Supervisor Wehrheim while honoring the real heroes who reside at the Northport VA. I'm very thankful to the MLB retired players for their support, Donato Panico and Gerard Leonard from Heros For Our Heroes for their endless dedication to helping our veterans."

“It is a privilege for Heros For Our Heroes to be involved in this annual event and in a small way, we’re able to say ‘thank you’ to the people who risk their lives every day to keep us safe while showing the youth in our community the importance of our servicemen and women,” said Donato Panico, founder of Heroes For Our Heroes.