Veteran seeks stranger who gave him a Costco gift card as thanks for his service
Leila Ahmed
Leila Ahmed
Reporter · Syracuse, NY
A graduate of the University at Buffalo, Leila has spent five years in journalism, previously working at a community-focused news outlet in Rochester, NY. She specializes in uncovering the diverse voices and cultural richness of Syracuse’s neighborhoods, bringing their stories to light.
More from Leila →Reporter · Monday, November 2, 2026 at 7:58 PM · 1 min read
Two veterans were sitting at a Costco food court in Riverhead, NY, discussing their experiences. Veteran John Christina had asked to join another soldier who was sitting alone having lunch Oct. 6, according to an article by Riverhead News-Review.