Military service has been a lifelong dream for Legislator David Tubiolo (D – Yonkers). Recognizing that the United States Armed Forces suffers from a recruitment shortage, he made the decision to pursue this dream last summer at the age of 35 by enrolling with the U.S. Army. He first completed Basic Combat Training, then Officer Candidate School (OCS), where he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in January of 2024, and he now serves as Adjutant General in the U.S. Army Reserve.
David has always looked up to his family’s tradition of service. His maternal great-grandfather, Cesare Corbellini emigrated from Italy and served in the Infantry of the U. S. Army in the trenches of France in World War I. His great-uncle, Joseph Tubiolo, served in World War II in the Infantry as a Tech Sergeant, participating in the invasion of Normandy and into the Rhineland of Germany. His uncle, Len Sarver, served in Vietnam from 1969 to 1970 and is now a retired Major in the U.S. Army and an OCS alum class of 1968.
Legislator Tubiolo said, “My entire life has been committed to public service on a local level. At age 35, this was my last opportunity to serve nationally in the U.S. Military. I found a way to complete that service in the compressed timeline of 6 months. Today, I continue to live out my purpose — serving my community better each day – locally for the residents of Yonkers and Mount Vernon, and now also nationally as a proud soldier in the United States Armed Forces.”
Westchester County Executive George Latimer said, “Legislator David Tubiolo’s journey to fulfill his lifelong dream of serving in the military is both inspiring and commendable. His dedication to public service, both locally, and now nationally, reflects his deep commitment to his community and country. We are proud to have him represent Westchester County, and I commend him for his exceptional service and sacrifice.”
Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano said, “Serving our country is an honorable commitment like no other. Congratulations to U.S. Army Second Lieutenant David Tubiolo on earning your commission as an officer. Thank you for all you do, you will always have the City of Yonkers’ support in your military endeavors. Continue to stay safe.”
NYS Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said, “I am so pleased that David has followed a path of service to his country and his local community. I was proud to have written his recommendation for Officer Candidate School, and I applaud him on earning his commission as an Officer in the United States Army Reserve. Thank you, David, for your service!”
Commissioner of Yonkers Department of Public Works and retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel Thomas G. Meier said, “As a retired Army officer I am very proud of our County Legislator David Tubiolo for graduating from Officer Candidate School and I congratulate him for his commissioning as a 2nd Lieutenant in the US Army.”
While attending Syracuse University in 2007-2008, David Tubiolo participated in ROTC and went to Ft. Knox for a Leaders Training Course (LTC). Despite the program being a significant commitment, he was also involved in volunteer work and did not want his college life to pass him by. However, Tubiolo promised himself that he would complete his service after completing college.
Tubiolo said, “During challenging moments, I reminded myself why I am doing this: it is always for our country, service to the people, honor and pride. I was determined to return to my community as a soldier and officer. I waited my whole life for this honor and now it is a reality.
