Presidential Debate on Foreign Policy Reminds Us That All Politics Is Local

They say that all of politics is local. No matter how big of an issue, it somehow affects those who live in communities like ours. The final debate scheduled for Monday night at 9 p.m.between President Barack Obama and Republican challenger Mitt Romney will focus on foreign policy.

The biggest foreign policy issue for the last three presidential terms has to be terrorism and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

As the candidates debate foreign policy, Patch looks back at some of the stories we covered on the local effects on the community of the America's ongoing wars.

Nesconset resident John Feal worked at Ground Zero, and now he works to help those with 9/11 related illnesses through his non-profit FealGood Foundation.

Photo of the Day: Workers Prep Responders Memorial for Unveiling

Although work on the 9/11 Responders Remembered memorial in Nesconset has seen numerous delays, from an earthquake to Tropical Storm Irene and recent heavy rain, workers started early Friday morning with no scheduled time to stop to prepare for its Saturday morning unveiling.

PHOTOS: First Tree Lighting at Nesconset 9/11 Responders Memorial

Residents gather at 9/11 Responders Remembered memorial in Nesconset for first holiday celebration.

The death of Osama bin Laden has prompted celebration, something some local veterans say may not be warranted.

The legislator said the tragic events 10 years ago has forced Suffolk County to be proactive in measures to keep his constituents safe.

VIDEO: Legis. Kennedy Lends Support to 9/11 Responders Memorial Workers

Legis. John Kennedy Jr. stopped by the 9/11 responders memorial in Nesconset on Tuesday while workers poured cement.

PHOTOS: St. James Girls Host Lemonade Fundraiser for 9/11 Memorial

The efforts of four St. James girls resulted in more than $200 being raised for the 9/11 memorial park in St. James.

PHOTOS: St. James Fire Department 9/11 Memorial Construction Underway

Construction on a 9/11 memorial park is currently underway by the St. James Fire District, and should be completed by month’s end. Ed Springer, current commissioner and former chief for the district, said the memorial should be completed by the weekend of Aug. 27, more than two weeks before the dedication ceremony on Sept. 11.

Superintendent of Highways Glenn Jorgensen, members of the town council, and more were in attendance Friday night.

The 9/11 memorial park at the St. James Fire District substation on Jefferson Avenue was officially unveiled Sunday in front of hundreds of locals. Assemblyman Michael Fitzpatrick, R-Smithtown, Legis. Lynne Nowick, R-St. James, Suffolk County Treasurer Angie Carpenter, Town Supervisor Patrick Vecchio, and more spoke to the hundreds of locals in attendance.

Changed by 9/11: Family Honors Firefighter Father Through Charity

Judi Simmons, wife of the late Marty Simmons, a New York City Firefighter, and her three sons donate time and money through the Marty Simmons Memorial Fund to local sports organizations, the high school and more.