BEEKMAN – Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino and the County’s Office of Veterans Affairs remembered the life and military service of U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sergeant (CMSgt.) James Thomas Cartica, born in Union Vale and raised in Poughquag, who passed away in 2025, at September’s “Honor-A-Veteran” ceremony, held at Beekman Recreation Center in Hopewell Junction.
Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino said, “James Cartica lived with a gentle strength that made people feel safe and supported. From the day he joined the Air Force at 17, he gave his whole heart to serving his country and helping the people around him. Dutchess County is proud to share Mr. Cartica’s legacy through our ‘Honor-A-Veteran’ program so that his kindness, loyalty and love will stay alive in the many lives he touched and inspire others to live as he did.”
Enlisting at 17, James Thomas Cartica, Sr. dedicated more than three decades to serving his country in the United States Air Force and Air National Guard. He served from 1978 to 2010, including 26 years with the 105th Maintenance Squadron at Stewart Air National Guard Base, where he specialized in aerospace propulsion. CMSgt. Cartica supported numerous military operations, including Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom. His leadership, expertise, and commitment to his fellow airmen earned their respect and left a lasting impact. After his military service, CMSgt. Cartica continued serving his community through his work at Metal Container Corp. in Orange County. He was a devoted family man, mentor, and friend, remembered for his legacy of service, friendship, and love of country.
Cartica was one of seven children and his youngest sibling, Pleasant Valley Town Clerk Mary Beth Muir read a poem about her beloved brother, “Jimmy,” that brought many in the room to tears and ended with a standing ovation for Muir.
Director of Veterans Affairs Adam Roche told Mid-Hudson News that the outpouring of support and emotional tributes were a testament to Cartica’s character. “This is why County Executive Serino started this initiative and I am honored to play a part in honoring those who served with honor and distinction.”
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