Donald Bernstein

Colonel Donald Bernstein is a decorated military veteran with many educational accomplishments. He has served his community and his nation throughout his entire life, and even following his military career, Mr. Bernstein has been dedicated to supporting others and honoring our veterans. 

Mr. Bernstein was on active duty for 27 years, 1957-1984, where he served in the infantry, was an army aviator and a Mohawk multi-engine instructor pilot. He served in two Vietnam flying tours and two Germany tours with bravery and honor, never turning down a job, and efficiently and effectively carrying out orders. As a result, he received many commendations for his service, including the Senior Parachute Badge – 47 jumps, the Infantryman Badge, the Senior Flight Wings and the Expert Infantryman’s Badge. 

Mr. Bernstein enjoys teaching his fellow soldiers as much as he did fighting with them. He taught between the years of 1986-2013, serving as a United States Army Cadet Command certified JROTC Instructor and Senior Army Instructor for Valley Central High School in the Town of Montgomery. Mr. Bernstein also helped establish JROTC programs in Washingtonville and James I. O’Neill High Schools.  

Mr. Bernstein is an ardent supporter of many local veterans’ organizations, including the American Legion, VFW and Vietnam Vets. He is actively involved in the Orange County Veterans Coalition and Orange County Veterans Service Agency, and has served his community as an adjunct instructor at several local prisons. 

Donald I. Bernstein retired with the rank of Colonel in the United States Army, receiving numerous awards, badges and medals which commemorate his unwavering dedication to his country and to teaching his fellow soldiers.