Senator Bonacic Announces Town of Wallkill Resident Vincent James Scali as his NY Senate Veterans' Hall of Fame Inductee

(Albany, NY)- State Senator John J. Bonacic (R/C/I-Mt. Hope) is pleased to announce that Town of Wallkill resident, Vincent James “Jim” Scali has been selected as his 2017 NY State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame inductee. Mr. Scali and other veterans from across NY State were honored at a ceremony in Albany today, May 16.

Vincent James “Jim” Scali grew up in the Hudson Valley and graduated from Middletown High School in 1966. Shortly after graduation he joined the U.S. Army and served in the Pt Armored Division. He served for three years. including a 14-month tour in the Republic of Korea, leaving the service with the rank of Sergeant.

Mr. Scali is the First Vice Commander of the Town of Wallkill American Legion Post 1181 and started the Town of Wallkill American Legion Patriotism Program in the fall of 2015.

The program has received plaudits and praise from local officials and media outlets for the message it has brought to 19,000 students across 47 schools throughout Orange County. The program consists of veterans from different branches of the military discussing their experiences with students and providing an educational program, which includes a discussion of American history, the founding fathers, the Declaration of Independence, and proper care for the United States Flag. Further, the program includes a positive message about the harmful effects of bullying, and most importantly the program discourages apathy amongst our youth and encourages voter participation

“It is my pleasure to induct Jim Scali into the Senate’s Veterans Hall of Fame,” said Senator Bonacic. “He has continued to serve his community even after his active duty service ended. Through his Patriotism Program, Mr. Scali is providing truly valuable lessons to the youth in our community on what it truly means to be an American.”

Jim Scali resides with his wife Susan in Circleville, New York. He is also a member of VFW Post 692 and the Orange County Chapter of the Korean War Veterans Association Chapter 202.Jim was named “Veteran of the Year” for 2016 by the Orange County Veterans Coalition and “Citizen of the Month” by the Orange County Executive.