Senator Robach Inducts World War II Veteran Anthony Ferrarese into NYS Veterans Hall of Fame

State Senator Joe Robach is proud to announce the induction of Anthony “Tony” Ferrarese, an active member in the Rochester veteran community, to the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame on Tuesday, May 19. This honor is designed to pay tribute to New Yorkers whose gallantry in the U.S. Armed Forces is complimented by their service to the community and their accomplishments as a civilian. 

“The New York State Senate Veteran’s Hall of Fame gives special recognition to distinguished individuals as a way to express our deep gratitude and admiration” said Senator Robach. “Tony has dedicated his life to serving this nation, his comrades and his community, and is most deserving of this great honor.”

Tony was drafted into the United States Army in January, 1943, and was attached to the 3505 Medium Automotive Maintenance Ordnance Company. He earned the Normandy Campaign Medal for the Invasion of France shortly after ‘D-Day’, and also received the Northern France, Rhineland, Europe Africa Mediterranean Eastern Service Medal, Good Conduct and World War II Victory Medal.  

Upon his honorable discharge in 1946, Tony joined the Veterans of Foreign Wars and has been a member ever since. As a member of the Thomas F. Healy Post 16 VFW, Tony has held all offices leading to commander, and went onto the County level of the organization where he held all offices including Monroe County Commander. In 1989, Tony was elected State Commander of the VFW and served one year with Distinction, achieving National All American Honors. In 2003, he was elected to serve a two year term on the National VFW Board of Directors. 

For over twenty years, Tony was known as the “Veterans Reporter”, which was a weekly radio program where he gave detailed reports on veteran’s news and benefits. He announced the annual Memorial Day parade in downtown Rochester, NY for over forty years and has won State and National awards for the Monroe County VFW newsletter where he was editor and publisher. 

Mr. Ferrarese will be inducted into the New York State Veteran’s Hall of Fame during a ceremony on Tuesday May, 19 at 11:00 a.m. in the Legislative Office Buiding. Each honoree’s photograph and biography will become part of a special on-line exhibit proclaiming the contributions of these exemplary New York Veterans.