MAYVILLE, N.Y. — Chautauqua County recognized Lori Dispenza, a U.S. Army veteran and Veterans Service Officer with the Chautauqua County Veterans Service Agency, for her distinguished military service and continued commitment to supporting veterans and their families.
The recognition took place at the Legislature Meeting on Oct. 28, 2026, with Legislator John Penhollow of District 7 commemorating Dispenza’s service and contributions to the community.
Dispenza, a Dunkirk resident, enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1998 and served for more than a decade, attaining the rank of staff sergeant. Her assignments included locations throughout the United States and Honduras, as well as a 15-month combat deployment to Kirkuk, Iraq. Her military decorations include four Army Commendation Medals, three Army Achievement Medals, three Army Good Conduct Medals and the Iraq Campaign Medal with Service Star.
Following her honorable discharge in 2010, Dispenza earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from SUNY Fredonia and an Advanced Certificate in Veterans Services from SUNY Empire State College.
She began her career in veterans services in 2014 and has since represented hundreds of veterans and filed thousands of claims with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, helping former service members obtain benefits and support.
In 2025, Dispenza returned to Dunkirk as a Veterans Service Officer with the Chautauqua County Veterans Service Agency. In recognition of her military service and continued dedication to fellow veterans, State Sen. George Borrello selected her as his honoree for induction into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame.
Chautauqua County commends Dispenza for her service to the nation and her ongoing advocacy for the veterans and families who have given so much in service to their country.
