In recognizing the sacrifices our Military Service Personnel make for our Country, WNY Freedom Lounge Inc. has created a welcoming environment for traveling Military Personnel & Veterans at the Buffalo-Niagara International Airport. This Courtesy Center is a private area, away from the normal stresses of travel, to enjoy light refreshments, and rest between flights, in an atmosphere that enhances the morale of those who are away from home. The WNY Freedom Lounge is open to members of the military and their families free of charge.
Military Personnel, Veterans, and their families, frequently travel throughout the country on assignment and relocation. Many of our country’s major airports have a club, lounge, or courtesy room, available to Military Personnel; some of which are funded and staffed by the USO or an Airline. Smaller regional airports (such as Buffalo) do not meet the minimum requirements for a USO. While these smaller and regional airports do not transition the numbers of Military Personnel to meet the USO criteria for participation, the need for such a facility still exists, albeit with a smaller footprint. Due to flight schedules, transitioning Military Personnel often face long layovers at Buffalo‑Niagara International Airport. Many journey alone, and younger service members may have limited resources while awaiting their connecting flights. That’s why the WNY Freedom Lounge was established at Buffalo‑Niagara International Airport — a welcoming space for Military Personnel and Veterans. Operated entirely by volunteers and sustained mostly through donations, the Lounge receives only limited government support.
The WNY Freedom Lounge is a private, 501(c)3 non-profit organization that provides morale and recreational services to members of the US Military and their families. In the WNY Freedom Lounge, visitors can generally find comfortable seating, reading material, TV, phone, snacks, and internet access.
Some of the Lounge benefits you can expect:
- Snacks
- Internet
- Local Military and Veteran Organization Informational Pamphlets
- Reading Material such as Local Buffalo/Niagara Landmarks & Things to Do
- Comfortable seating
- TV
Chairman: E. Daniel Walther IV
LTC, USA (ret)
Finance Officer: Jeffrey M. Cipolla
LTC, USA (ret)
Administrative Officer: Brian E. Steward
PO1, USN (ret)
Personnel Officer: Deborah A. Fucina
Supply Officer: David Wharton
Public Affairs Officer: Vacant
“Freedom isn’t free, but access to our facility is, to those who defend it”
