Project Honor

Honoring Marine Sgt. Nicholas "Sure" J. Aleman

Nicholas "Sure" J. Aleman, 24, of Brooklyn, N.Y. grew up on Manhattan Avenue and graduated from Midwood HS.  He had studied politics briefly at Fordham University in Manhattan.

" 'Sure' was born and bred in Brooklyn and recognized for his exceptional handstyle which brought together elements of classic New York graffiti with ornamental calligraphy. His script signatures could be found throughout the city and were a major influence on myself and countless others...He was my partner-in-crime and my best friend. I am grateful for the time we had and that everywhere I go in New York City I see his name and know that his presence will be felt by many long after his passing” "Faust," fellow street graffitti artist.

"The guy was very smart. He liked what he was doing." Alex Aleman, cousin

Honoring SSgt Javier O Ortiz-Rivera

Javier O. Ortiz-Rivera graduated from Edison Tech HS in 2002. He joined the Marines in 2002.

"My husband was very much loved by his Marines, his friends, community, and especially myself and our kids." Veronica Ortiz, wife. "He told me he was extremely blessed to be out there with the guys he was out there with. He started a Bible study with his guys, and his faith was stronger than ever."

"Javier was the absolute best father any kid could ever hope for," she wrote. "His kids were his pride and joy and of all the jobs he had, being a father was what he did best."

Honoring SGT Edward H Bolen

Edward H Bolen of Chittenango, NY, was born in Syracuse, NY and graduated from Chittenago HS in 2003.  He was confirmed at St Patricks Church.  He was the Captain of the Football and Baseball Teams as well as having bowled, competed in track & field, and wrestled. 

He was a cellist in the All-County Orchestra and an avid golfer.  He attended college at St. John Fisher and studied business at SUNY-Cortland.  He enlisted in the Army in 2006 rising to the rank of Sergeant in B. Co., 2nd Battalion, 30th Infantry, 10th Mountain Division.

"Ed was a tremendous athlete, which I think was largely due to his dedication. Ed didn't do ANYTHING halfway. I considered myself a decent chess player until the first time I played Ed." Jeremy Wolford, schoolmate.

"He always made us laugh and his smile is engraved in our minds forever." Sharon Schantz

"I will never forget his smile, his warm heart and his zest for life." Laurice Rau-McAllister, neighbor.

"Ed was noble and brave, always looking out for and protecting the people he cared about.  Ed was one of my favorite people...he had the greatest ability at making you smile. And his smile lit up the whole room." Rachel Henderson.

Honoring PFC Jason M Kropat

Private First Class Jason M. "Nighthawk" Kropat, 25, of White Lake,  NY.  He graduated from Monticello HS, where he was known for his wit and mischieviousness.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and four-wheeling.  He worked as a carpenter before joining the Army where he often stopped in to see his boss', Brian Bunce's, falcon.

“He lived every word of the soldier’s creed.”
“Always quick with a joke. The battle buddy that everybody wanted.”
“Literally did everything for everyone else.”
“Always realized that Kropat had my back.” Fellow Soldiers

"I don't have words to describe how happy I am to call him my son." Glenn Kropat, father.