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SPONSORED BY SENATOR PATTY RITCHIE MAY 10, 2013 - FORT DRUM, NEW YORK

Senator Patty Ritchie


Dear Friend:

2013 May 2013

The New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame was created to honor past members of the US Armed Forces whose sacrices and service have helped make our nation and our communities better places to live. Their meritorious service to our nation is only complemented by their continuing service to our communities. I am pleased to sponsor the Veterans Hall of Fame, and humbled to be given the opportunity to recognize the exemplary individuals who have been nominated for this honor. This recognition is just a small tribute for the service, sacrice and commitment you have shown to the residents and communities of Central and Northern New York, as well as our entire country. Please allow me to extend my most sincere gratitude and welcome you to this years celebration of the 2013 Nominees to the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame. Sincerely, Sincerely,

Senator Patty Ritchie

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Col. (Ret.) Terrence L. Roche


Nominated by: Col. (Ret.) Michael Plummer
Throughout his 26 years of military service Col. Terry Roche commanded at every level from platoon to Garrison and posts from Buffalo to Paris and Korea, with wartime service in Vietnam. Col. Roche was Garrison Commander when the announcement was made in 1984 that Fort Drum would be the home of the 10th Mountain Division. He was instrumental in the planning and initial execution of the $1.2 billion construction project and the rapid expansion of the installation support services needed to man, equip and train to combat readiness, 10,000 light infantry soldiers. For his military service, Col. Roche was awarded the Legion of Merit (two awards), Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal (four awards), Army Commendation Medal (four awards), Air Force Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and several others. After retirement, Col. Roche became a member of the Fort Drum Steering Committee, continuing to make signicant contributions to the success of the Fort Drum expansion and integration into the North Country community. In 2000, he helped create the Fort Drum Regional Liaison Organization (FDRLO) with the mission of fostering effective communication, understanding and mutual support among the regions military and civilian communities. As part of the FDRLO top team, Col. Roche assisted in keeping Fort Drum off multiple BRAC lists and pulled together community support to ensure Fort Drum maintains its status as a premiere power projection platform in support of the most deployed division in the U.S. Army. Col. Roche also has been actively involved in a number of organizations, civic groups and volunteer efforts. He has been a member of the Executive Leadership Team of the American Heart Association, served as Vice President of the Carthage Coordinated Development Group, Director of the Carthage Industrial Development Corporation and the Economic Development Corporation of Carthage. He is also a member of the Rotary Club of Watertown, Chairman of the Purple Heart Scholarship Committee, and a member of the Board of Directors of WPBS-TV. Col. Roche is also extremely active in his church. Col. Roche was recently recognized for his overall contribution to the North Country by being selected for the 2010 Shapiro Award and the 2013 Carthage Citizen of the Year Award.

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Michael Plummer Ha F me
2012 Inductee
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The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

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2013 2013 New York State Veterans Hall of Fame Nominees


Sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

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Major Maurice Halpin Barry


Nominated by: Matthew and Lucinda Barry

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Major Maurice Halpin Hal Barry has served his countryand the Northern New York communityfor nearly his entire adult life. Major Barry served in the United States Air Force for 20 years, completing six separate tours of duty in Vietnam, ying aboard B-52 bombers as an Electronic Warfare Ofcer. After Vietnam, he was stationed in Colorado as an intelligence ofcer at the Strategic Air Command. He retired in 1986 as a Major. For his service, Major Barry received a number of accolades including the Distinguished Flying Cross, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal and more. Following his military career, Major Barry became a science teacher in Rome, NY and ultimately retired in his hometown of Ogdensburg as Superintendent of the Ogdensburg City School District in 2008. Major Barry passed away in 2011 after a courageous battle with cancer. Today, he is remembered for his many contributions to both his country and his community.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

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L. Angeline Scaglione Canale


Nominated by: John Canale
A native of Oswego, L. Angeline Scaglione Canale is a graduate of the University of Rochester whose strong work ethic enabled her to obtain a degree in nursing. Mrs. Canale served her country through the United States Nurse Corps. During her time in the Nurse Corps, she served in Italy as a 2nd Lieutenant. In 1945, Mrs. Canale was honorably discharged and went on to serve as a nurse in the Oswego Hospitals operating room for 50 years. She retired in 1995 and later served as a substitute nurse at the Oswego Hospital. Mrs. Canale is married to SSgt John Canale, chairman of the Oswego County Battle of the Bulge Veterans. The couple has one son and three grandsons.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

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Chief Warrant Ofcer

Clarence Carney

Nominated by: Judy Ann Carney


Chief Warrant Ofcer Clarence Carney is a veteran of World War II, Korea and Vietnam. He received a number of accolades for his more than 40 years of service, including the Bronze Star, Company Infantry Badge, the Army Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, the WWII Victory Medal and many more. Chief Warrant Ofcer Clarence Carney currently lives in Pulaski, and ies his American Flag every day.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

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Clifford Carr, Jr.


Nominated by: Julie Schweitzer
In May of 1943, Clifford Carr, Jr. was sworn into the United States Navy as an Apprentice Seaman. He served in the South Pacic during WWII as a medic on various ships and aircraft carriers. In 1946, Mr. Carr was honorably discharged at the rank of Pharmacists Mate Second Class. Following this, Mr. Carr worked at St. Regis Paper Company for more than 39 years, also serving as president of the International Association of Machinists Union #1009. Residing in Theresa with his wife and four children, Mr. Carr served on the Town Council and the Village Council, was VFW Commander, volunteered at his church and was a member of the Theresa Volunteer Fire Department. Mr. Carr moved from Theresa to Ives Hill Retirement Community in Watertown several years ago with his wife of 66 years, Phyllis Anzalone Carr.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

Donald Jake Corbine


Nominated by: Randy Burke
Donald Jake Corbine entered the United States Army in 1948 and was discharged as a Master Sergeant in 1953. Mr. Corbine was a POW in Korea from December of 1950 to September of 1953. During his time in captivity, he suffered frost bite, beriberi, heart trouble and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. For his service, he was awarded numerous medals and awards, including the Purple Heart and POW Medal. Mr. Corbine is a life member of the Canton VFW Post 1231, where he served as commander for two years and was founding member of the Post Honor Guard and Firing Squad. He is also a member of the Disabled American Veterans, American Legion, Thousand Islands Chapter of Korean Veterans as well as a life member of the Korean War Gray Beards. He was also founding member of the Northern New York American X-POW Chapter, where he served as President for four years. In 1986, Mr. Corbine walked 240 miles from Canton to Albany with other Vietnam Veterans to raise money and awareness of the POW/MIA cause. Mr. Corbine has been married to his wife Elevene for 47 years and the couple has four living sons and one deceased daughter.

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The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

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Raymond Cutway
Nominated by: Laurel Lee Roethel
Raymond Cutway is a disabled Marine Corps Veteran, who served from 1979 until being medically discharged in 1983. Mr. Cutway is extremely active in his community, and is the founder of the Toys for Tots program in St. Lawrence County. Throughout the years, he has collected and distributed toys to more than 43,000 children during the holiday season. As a member of the Free and Accepted Masons, he volunteers with the Child ID program and is also on their charities committee, which helps to raise money for local families and agencies in need. Mr. Cutway volunteers at the Ogdensburg International Seaway Festival, the Light Up the Night Holiday Parade and various other Chamber of Commerce events. Mr. Cutway is also a father and grandfather.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

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Larry Deets
Nominated by: Donna Deets
Larry Deets served in the United States Army from 1971 to 1991. During his service, Mr. Deets spent time in Germany, worked for the Department of the Army in Virginia, and also for DISCOM Headquarters at Fort Drum. While serving as a jumpmaster with the 82nd Airborne, Mr. Deets earned a Master Parachutists Badge. Some of his other accolades include a Defense Service Medal with a Bronze Star, Army Good Conduct Medal, Meritorious Service Medal as well as several others he received before retiring as a SFC/E7. Following his retirement from the military, Mr. Deets has been extremely active in his community, serving on the Richville Village Board for many years and working to build a new playground in the village. Mr. Deets also served with the Richville Fire Department for 13 years, and continues to help the organization with various events.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

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Julius Sherwood Dunham


Nominated by: Judy Botting
Julius Sherwood Dunham graduated as a Naval Aviator from Pensacola, the Annapolis of the Air in 1943. Serving in WWII, he ew 62 combat missions in the Atlantic and Pacic theaters. He was awarded two Air Medals with a Gold Star and ve Battle Stars. He retired from the Naval Reserve in 1962. After serving, Mr. Dunham entered the education eld, beginning his career in Niagara Falls, where he spent eight years as a teacher and principal. In 1955 he moved to Oswego, where he served in different administrative and academic positions. In retirement, he taught at SUNY Oswego for seven years in the Educational Administration Department. Mr. Dunham has devoted many hours to volunteering with the Oswego Hospital, the Rotary Club, the Salvation Army and the United Fund.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

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Walter Fischer
Nominated by: Cindi Giovo
Walter Fischer enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1942. During his time of service, he served as Private First Class, signalman and Combat Military Police. Mr. Fischer was injured twice during WWII. He was shot in the head in Guam and was hospitalized at Ira Heights in Pearl Harbor. In Okinawa, he was hit by a Japanese bomb, leaving a lot of shrapnel in his legs. For his service, Mr. Fischer received a number of accolades, including two Purple Hearts, the Naval Unit Citation, four Asiatic Pacic Ribbons with four stars, the American Defense Campaign Medal and many more. He was honorably discharged in 1945. Mr. Fischer lives in the house he built for his family in New Haven after returning from the war. He is presently the fourth oldest living New Haven, NY-born resident.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

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John Flanagan
Nominated by: Kathryne Cobb
John Flanagan entered the US Air Force in 1950, serving until 1954, when he retired at the rank of SSgt. Mr. Flanagan served as an MP and during his time of service, met his wife, Francis Shine, who was also in the US Air Force. He was the recipient of many accolades including the Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Medal and the Air Force Longevity Service Award. He was honorably discharged in 1954 and returned home to Minetto shortly after. After leaving the Air Force, he helped run the family farm, and held jobs at Columbia Mills as well as the Oswego County Soil and Water District. He has remained extremely active in his community, serving the Minetto Volunteer Fire Department for 35 years. Mr. Flanagan is married with three children.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

Robert Giordano, Jr

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Nominated by: Jill Kubik


On any given day, youll nd Robert Giordanobetter known as Air Force Bobvolunteering his time doing something that will benet someone else. Enlisting in the Air Force in 1982, Mr. Giordano completed his service in 2008 at the rank of SMSgt. Throughout his military career, he has been recognized for his service through a number of accolades, including the Distinguished Service Award, American Heritage Award, Air Force Master Recruiter, three Air Force Meritorious Medals, ve Air Force Commendation Medals, recognition for service during the Gulf War and 9/11, as well as many other honors. Today, Mr. Giordano is an active member of his community. He is the founder of Wounded Warrior Outdoor Adventures, Inc., an organization providing free outdoor experiences for wounded warriors, battle buddies, veterans and their families. He also serves as a board member for FISHCAP and the New York Fish Advisory Board. In addition, he has played a key role in the success of the St. Lawrence International Jr. Carp Tournament for the past ten years. Mr. Giordano has been recognized by Ft. Drum for his continued support and involvement in hunting and shing activities for troops.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

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Charles Otis Griswold


Nominated by: Curtis Griswold
Charles Otis Griswold enlisted in the US Army in 1943 at the age of 26. Upon completion of basic training he was assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division of the US Army Air Corps. He was then deployed to ETO and transferred to the 17th Airborne Division. He was decorated after serving in the Battle of the Bulge and participated in the Rhine crossing at Cologne, Germany. At the end of WWII, Mr. Griswold was part of the garrison of Berlin until his discharge in 1946 at the rank of T4. Mr. Griswold was actively involved in his community following his service in the military. He was commander of the Oswego Valley DAV Chapter 106 for many years, a member of the National Order of Trench Rats, as well as a member of the local VFW and American Legion. Mr. Griswold passed away in 1988. He was married to Vivian Reidy Griswold, and the couple had ve children.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

John Hasto

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Nominated by: Vaughn Fisher


John Hasto is a US Army veteran who served his country from March 1943 to November 1945. After completing a year of rigorous training, his unit was eventually sent to Normandy beachhead, and Mr. Hastos unitthe 3rd Calvary Groupwas assigned to General Pattons Third Army. The 3rd Calvary was often referred to as Pattons Ghost Troops, a nickname that was the result of the Germans not knowing how big the unit was, where they were or who they were. The outt was given many assignments over and above reconnaissance including being the rst American forces to cross the Siegfried line, a stationary defense built by the Germans, and moving a complete infantry division 150 miles to the Battle of the Bulge in three days. The 3rd Cavalry was so successful, it was decided to make the group a regiment. They are now known as the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment. Mr. Hasto received a number of accolades for his service including the American Theater Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal, the WWII Victory Medal and several others. Mr. Hasto has been a dedicated member of the Central Square Lions Club for more than 53 years.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

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Kenneth Leamon
Nominated by: Vaughn Fisher
Kenneth Leamon is a United States Air Force veteran who served his country from 1952 to 1956. A resident of Central Square, Mr. Leamon has dedicated much of his life to serving his church. He has been a licensed minister since 1965, is Pastor Emeritus at Antwerp Congregational Church as well as Transitional Pastor at Central Square Community Church. Outside of his church involvement, Mr. Leamon has been involved in a variety of other organizations including the Masonic Lodge, American Legion, Antwerp Fire Department and many more. He has been married to his wife, Nancy, for 54 years and has two daughters as well as three granddaughters.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

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Wayne Long
Nominated by: Vaughn Fisher
A resident of West Monroe, Wayne Long began his service with the United States Navy in February 1945. Shortly after enlisting, he was made Seaman First Class and traveled to China, Hong Kong and Korea. After being discharged in 1946, he was recalled to duty in 1952 to serve as Petty Ofcer 3rd Class. Mr. Long was then sent up and down the east and west coasts of Korea ring the Big 16 guns. While in Korea, Mr. Long was promoted to Petty Ofcer 2nd Class. He received a number of accolades for his service including the Victory Medal, United Nations Service Medal, China Service Medal, Korea President United Citation and the Korea Service Medal with one star. In addition to his military service, Mr. Long has been a Boy Scout leader for 47 years. He has received nearly every Boy Scout award including the Silver Beaver award. He is known to many in his community as Mr. Scouting.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

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Trevor Loomis
Nominated by: Judy LaMay
A native of Palermo, SSgt. Trevor Loomis has served our country in both Iraq and Afghanistan on three tours. On his last tour as a Cav Scout leading his patrol in pursuit of a wanted target, SSgt Loomis cleared a path for his squadron when someone with the squadron inadvertently stepped off the path and onto an IED. SSgt Loomis sustained more than 200 shrapnel wounds, including several pieces in his eyes, causing blindness, injuries to his back and knee, loss of hearing and Traumatic Brain Injury. He has spent a vast amount of time in Texas at the Brooke Army Medical Center and now resides in an apartment close to the hospital with his wife and son. SSgt Loomis has regained much of his eyesight and is now attending college to obtain his medical degree. For his service, SSgt was awarded the Purple Heart and seven Army Commendation Medals, including one for Valor.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

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Paul Mitras
Nominated by: Helen Mitras
Paul Gibby Mitras served his country with the US Army from 1953 to 1955 at Camp Gordon in Georgia and Fort Monmouth, New Jersey. After completing his military service, Mr. Mitras studied at Clarkson College where he earned a degree in electrical engineering. After graduation, Mr. Mitras worked for several companies including General Electric and Lockheed, at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration in Maryland, before returning to the North Country. As Waddingtons Postmaster and the owner of a small downtown restaurant, Mr. Mitras has devoted his life to his family, his community and his fellow veterans. Mr. Mitras is a member of the American Legion, where he rose through the ranks of Post 420 in Waddington before becoming actively involved in leadership of the 4th district, which encompasses most of Northern New York. In 2001 he was chosen as the New York State Department Commander, where he served as the top American Legion ofcial in New York State. In this role, he visited Legion Posts throughout the state, encouraging them to support both their communities and our troops.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

Stephen Mizgala
Nominated by: Cindi Giovo

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Stephen Mizgala joined the US Army after graduating from Mexico High School in 1950. After completing boot camp, he was then sent to Korea during the Korean War. From 1951 to 1953, Mr. Mizgala served in the 17th Army Infantry. During the war, he was sent for training in Japan to become a communication specialist. Upon returning to Korea he was the regimental radio chief. Mr. Mizgala received honorable discharge from the Army with the rank and title of E-5 sergeant with the following honors: Combat Infantrymans Badge, Korean Service Medal, three Bronze Service Stars, the United Nations Service Medal and the National Defense Service Medal. After returning to the United States, Mr. Mizgala served in the 3rd Infantry Regiment for the Honor Guard at Fort Meyer, Washington DC. He later earned a degree in education at SUNY Oswego and went on to teach Industrial Arts and Social Studies in Germany for more than 10 years. Mr. Mizgala and his wife Florence currently live in Mexico, NY. They volunteer at the Military Courtesy Room at Hancock Airport in Syracuse and are also active members of the Korean Veterans Organization.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

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Herbert Pelton
Nominated by: Robert Lyons
A resident of Central Square, Herbert Pelton enlisted in the US Navy in 1942 during WWII. He was discharged in September of 1948. Mr. Pelton not only served his country during his enlistment, but has continued to support our troops as a member of the American Legion for more than 65 years. He has served the organization as Commander and has held additional ofcer positions at various local American Legion Posts. Mr. Pelton and his wife have 12 children, ve of whom also have served their country, including one daughter who is currently serving in the Air Force.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

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Isaac Perkins
Nominated by: Andrea Duvall
Isaac Perkins is 92-years-old. He served in World War II, entering the US Army when he was 20, and serving for ve years. He fought in Corsica, the invasion of southern France and Germany, serving as a machine gun operator and cook. When he returned home to Ogdensburg, he went to work for New York State Department of Transportation, and donated his time to helping veterans, working on their behalf in the American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the AmVets. He rose through the leadership ranks of the VFW, serving as its commander. He was also one of eight veterans in Ogdensburg who helped bring the AmVets to the city, organizing the post and serving as one of its charter members.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

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Laurence Rector
Nominated by: Thomas Cleveland
Laurence Rector graduated from Mexico Academy and Central School in June 1942. Shortly after, he was drafted into the US Army to serve in WWII. After a short time in Africa, Mr. Rector was sent to Italy and became part of the 45th Division, 2nd Battalion, Company G. During his service, Mr. Rector was in the Battle of the Caves, was almost captured as a POW, and survived several other attacks. Mr. Rectors unit received six Campaign Battle Stars and one Presidential Citation for 511 days of combat service. After being discharged, Mr. Rector went on to college, began a teaching career, married his wife May Ellen and settled in Mexico to raise their six children.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

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Paul Riordan
Nominated by: George Hoffman, Jr.
Paul Riordan enlisted in the US Navy during WWII. After completing basic training, he was sent to a California training base for Marine Pilots. He was then sent to Alameda Island, California, and then to Japan. Upon discharged in 1946, Mr. Riordan joined the Naval Reserve. He was later ordered aboard the USS Cadmus and served in Korea from 1950 to 1952. Mr. Rioridan is currently the oldest member of the Lavere-Harrington VFW Post 2320. There, he has served as Post Commander, Canteen Manager, Trustee and Judge Advocate. In the 90s, Mr. Riordan spearheaded an effort to retain property tax exemptions that were granted to veterans. He was also instrumental in developing the Veterans Memorial Park in Oswego and today remains an active supporter of our troops.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

Patrick Rourk
CMSGT, USAF

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Nominated by: Michael Boprey, Jr., MSgt, USAF (Ret)


Patrick Rourk served for 24 years in the US Air Force, retiring at the highest enlisted rank, Chief Master Sergeant. For his service, he received more than 40 medals and decorations, including six Meritorious Service Medals. After serving in the Air Force, Mr. Rourk continued his commitment to serve through his position as Director of the St. Lawrence County Veterans Service Department. During his 17 years in this role, he assisted countless veterans and their beneciaries in obtaining benets. In addition to this position, Mr. Rourk has also written and inspected security and police policy for the US Air Force, served as a member of the Inspector General staff for Security Police as well as many other occupations. Mr. Rourk has degrees in Criminal Justice and Industrial Security, a certicate in Police Science from the University of Virginia and is a graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigations National Academy. During his retirement he has continued to serve his community through a number of organizations including the American Legion, SUNY Cantons Military Advisory Board, the St. Lawrence County VFW, the Boy Scouts of America and many more. Mr. Rourk and his wife, Patricia, have two children and four grandchildren.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

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Staff Sgt. Hillard Seaker


Nominated by: Michael Webster
SSgt Hillard Seaker served in the United States Air Force from 1942 to 1945. After training in Washington State, he was sent overseas to England, serving in the European theater at the 8th Force, 1st Air Division, 1st Air Wing with the 398th Bomb group 601st Bomb Squadron. While there, he was assigned Squadron Commander. Those in this position were the rst to the planes when they returned from bombing runs in Europe. For his service, SSgt Seaker received a number of accolades including WWII, European, African and Middle Eastern campaign medals, Normandy North France, Ardennes and Rhineland Central Europe medals, Distinguished Unit Citation Badge, Good Conduct Medal, Expert Carbine Medal, Medal for Merit, Conspicuous Service Star and many others.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

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Arnold Shaw
Nominated by: Christine Shaw
Serving in WWII from 1944 to 1946 as a member of the US Armys 178th Lightning Division, Arnold Shaws European conicts include the Battle of the Bulge, Hurtgen Forest and Normandy. Prior to his discharge, Mr. Shaw earned the Bronze Star, European Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Combat Infantrymans Badge, European Theater Medal with three Stars and President Unit Citation. After being discharged, Mr. Shaw returned home to West Monroe where he and his wife Liz raised their family. He continues to serve his community as a member of the Constantia Scriba Lodge #414 F&AM. In addition, Mr. Shaw is co-founder of the West Monroe Boy Scout Troop 735 and is a Charter Member of the West Monroe Volunteer Fire Department. One of Mr. Shaws proudest contributions is compiling, from memory, all North Shore residents who served in WWI and WWII for the record at the West Monroe Historical Society.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

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William (Bill) J. Shippee


Nominated by: Heather Woods
William (Bill) J. Shippee joined the United States Navy in 1986. He proudly served our country for eight years aboard the USS America and then the USS Lawrence. His service included time overseas during the Persian Gulf War. In 1999, he married his wife, Nicole, a Navy veteran who is currently in the Reserves. The couple had two children and one grandchild. Mr. Shippee later went on to work for the New York State Department of Corrections in Gouverneur. In March of 2013, Mr. Shippee passed away at the age of 46. Friends and family say his gentle, compassionate nature lives on in those who he knew.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

Charles Solar
Nominated by: Mr. Solars grandchildren

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Charles Solar joined the US Armys 825th Engineer Aviation Battalion on October 31, 1942. During his time of service, he was awarded the European African Middle Eastern Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the WWII Victory Medal. He was honorably discharged on December 31, 1945 with the rank of Corporal. Mr. Solar joined the Clayton Volunteer Fire Department in 1941 and is still an active member, serving in the roles of President and Chief throughout the years. Mr. Solar was the recipient of the rst-ever Citizen of the Year award in Clayton. In addition, he has served as a trustee for the United Methodist Church, Town of Clayton Constable and Cemetery Board Member. Mr. Solar retired from the Village of Clayton DPW in 1984 after 19 years as Superintendent. He was also the local school crossing guard until retiring at the age of 90. In 2011, he was named Honorary Dock Master at the dedication of the revitalized Frink Park Dock in downtown Clayton. Mr. Solar has been married to his wife for 65 years, has two sons, seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

Leonard Yablonski

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Nominated by: Cindi Giovo


A 1964 graduate of Mexico Academy and Central School, Leonard Lenny Yablonski joined the US Army during the Vietnam War. He received an honorable discharge on December 26, 1971 with the rank of Specialist 4 while in the infantry division of the US Army. Mr. Yablonski received a number of decorations for his service including the Vietnam Service Medal, Combat Infantrymans Badge, Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Purple Heart, as well as the Bronze Star Medal, which the President awarded to Mr. Yablonski for his outstanding meritorious service in connection with ground operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. He also received two awards from former Governor David Paterson. Mr. Yablonski is a former member of the storied Old Guard at Arlington Memorial Cemetery and currently volunteers at Arise and St. Stephens Church.

The State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie

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