Joseph D. Blanck

Joseph D. Blanck entered the United States Army in July 1964. Upon completion of Airborne School in December 1964, he was assigned to the 3rd Special Forces Group (Abn) at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. In May 1966, Mr. Blanck went to South Vietnam, assigned to the Long Range Reconnaissance Platoon of the 101st Airborne Division, and graduated from the 101st Airborne Division. In October 1968, Mr. Blanck left the United States Army after serving bravely in South Vietnam for thirty months. 

Mr. Blanck is the recipient of the Combat Infantry Badge, the Parachute Badge, the South Vietnam Parachute Badge, the Purple Heart, the Presidential Unit Citation, the National Defense Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with one Silver Service Star, and one Bronze Service Star, among many others. He has been honored by the Secretary of the Army as a Distinguished Member of the 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment. 

In March 1973, Mr. Blanck entered the New York City Police Department. He was promoted to Detective in May 1982, Sergeant in March 1987 and Lieutenant in June 1990, retiring in January 2001 after 28 years of service. Mr. Blanck was awarded 106 NYPD departmental medals during his career, and received numerous plaques, awards, certificates and letters of commendation from the community, civic associations, government and law enforcement organizations. Due to his dedication and service to his country – and his to his community – Mr. Blanck has always been recognized for his hard work and tireless allegiance. 

Always staying involved and helping wherever needed, Mr. Blanck is a member of the American Legion, 101st Airborne Division Association, 75th Ranger Regiment Association, Combat Infantry Association, 101st Airborne Division LRRP-Ranger Association and the Society of the Vietnamese Airborne. He has biked from Boston, Massachusetts to New York City and back, in order to raise funds for the families of slain law enforcement officers. Mr. Blanck’s commitment to those in need is evident in his unwavering enthusiasm and involvement with his community and nation. 

Mr. Blanck has dedicated his life to the betterment and safety of those around him, and to his country as a whole. He will never be adequately thanked for his sacrifice and his service, going beyond the call of duty.