Hilton Vietnam War Veteran Inducted into NY Senate Veterans Hall of Fame

WHEC Staff

November 22, 2021

Originally published in Rochester News 10 WHEC

(Left to Right) Rochester Veterans Outreach Center Executive Director Laura Stradley, Sergeant Robert Rapone, NYS Senator Jeremy Cooney

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC)— A local veteran was recognized Monday for his service to our country.

Hilton's Robert Rapone, who fought in Vietnam, was inducted into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame, one of the highest honors bestowed by the Senate.

During his service career, Rapone earned multiple awards including the Purple Heart and a bronze star with valor. He was inducted by State Senator Jeremy Cooney.

In the years following his service in the army, Rapone became actively involved in several veterans organizations here in Rochester and continues to be active, years after his retirement.

"Very proud, very honored this is such an award," Rapone said. "I hope I deserve it, I hope I deserved it in the past and I hope I continue to do good for the community."

You can learn more about the Hall of Fame here. You can also view the ceremony in the player below, or click here. (Rapone appears around the 28-minute mark.)