NY-21 Congressional Candidate Anthony Constantino Pledges Entire First-Term Salary to Wounded Iraq War Veteran
By: Fern Sidman
Congressional candidate Anthony Constantino announced Wednesday that, if elected to represent New York’s 21st Congressional District, he intends to donate his entire first-term congressional salary to the family of Army veteran Sgt. Eddie Ryan, a wounded service member who sustained a traumatic brain injury during combat operations in Iraq.
The announcement was made during a news conference held at the Hiland Park Country Club in Queensbury, where Constantino outlined what he described as a long-term commitment to supporting veterans and military families. According to the campaign announcement, Constantino also pledged to make the donation regardless of the outcome of the congressional election.
The proposal would direct the entirety of his congressional salary during a first term in office to Ryan and his family, drawing attention to the continuing challenges faced by wounded veterans and their caregivers years after their military service has ended.
Ryan was severely injured during his third deployment to Iraq in April 2005 when he was wounded in a friendly-fire incident. According to information provided during the announcement, he suffered a traumatic brain injury that resulted in lasting cognitive and mobility impairments. More than two decades later, the effects of those injuries continue to shape his daily life and the lives of his family members.
Speaking about the decision, Constantino said his connection to the Ryan family began after meeting them in Lake George early last year. “The positive energy of the Ryan Family was impactful on me as soon as I met them,” Constantino said. “I couldn’t think of a better way to spend the money. I hope it inspires other Americans to similarly support our veterans in new and creative ways.”
The announcement reportedly came as a surprise to members of the Ryan family. Chris Ryan, Eddie Ryan’s father and a retired Marine Reservist who has spent years advocating for wounded veterans and improved support services, expressed gratitude after learning of the commitment. “We are absolutely floored,” Chris Ryan said. “This is life changing for us.”
The announcement also highlighted the broader issue of long-term care for veterans who have sustained severe injuries during military service. While many wounded service members receive assistance through federal programs, families often continue to face substantial financial, medical, and caregiving burdens years after the initial injuries occur.
Traumatic brain injuries remain among the most significant challenges confronting veterans of the post-September 11 conflicts. Medical experts have long noted that such injuries can produce enduring physical, cognitive, and emotional consequences requiring extensive rehabilitation and ongoing support.
Ryan’s experience reflects the reality faced by many veterans whose lives were permanently altered by wartime injuries. Family members frequently assume caregiving responsibilities that can continue for decades, often requiring significant personal sacrifice and financial commitment.
Constantino said his support for veterans was influenced by his own family history. According to information provided during the announcement, his father served at the Bikini Island atomic bomb test site and instilled in him an appreciation for military service and civic responsibility from an early age.
Campaign representatives also pointed to Constantino’s previous involvement in projects honoring military veterans, including investments intended to improve Veterans Park and related community initiatives.
The announcement arrives at a time when veteran issues continue to occupy a prominent place in public policy discussions. Advocates have repeatedly called for expanded support for wounded service members, improved healthcare access, and greater recognition of the sacrifices made by military families.
For many observers, the pledge has drawn attention not only because of its financial implications but also because it places the spotlight on the continuing needs of veterans who sustained life-altering injuries during America’s overseas military engagements.
Whether or not Constantino ultimately serves in Congress, the commitment has generated discussion about private philanthropy, public service, and the role elected officials can play in drawing attention to veterans’ issues.
The Ryan family’s story, meanwhile, serves as a reminder that the consequences of war often extend far beyond the battlefield and long after military operations have ended. For wounded veterans and their families, the journey of recovery can span decades, requiring resilience, support, and sustained community engagement.
As the campaign season continues, the pledge is likely to remain a notable part of Constantino’s public platform. More broadly, it has renewed attention to the sacrifices made by American service members and the enduring obligations many believe the nation owes to those who have borne the physical and psychological costs of military service.
For the Ryan family, the announcement represented an unexpected gesture of support. For veteran advocates, it has highlighted the continuing importance of ensuring that wounded veterans and their caregivers receive recognition and assistance commensurate with their sacrifices on behalf of the country.
