Local War Heroes Receive High Military Honors

On Friday, April 16^th, I presented fourteen local war veterans with military awards sanctioned by the State of New York – the Conspicuous Service Cross, New York’s highest military honor, the Conspicuous Service Star, and the Medal for Merit.

I am always humbled to be in the presence of brave veterans that selflessly served our country in order to protect the freedoms that we as a nation enjoy today. It is important that citizens, young and old, understand the significance of what these men have done. By presenting these medals, on behalf of the residents of the 55^th Senate district, I recognize the valor and patriotism of these men, and honor their contributions and service to our country.

The award recipients for April 16, 2010, were:

Isador Bragger, Rochester, U.S. Army, Conspicuous Service Cross; Robert J. Bryant, Rochester, U.S. Army, Conspicuous Service Star and Medal for Merit; Michael J. Dorn, Naples, U.S. Army, Conspicuous Service Star and Medal for Merit; Joseph Gold, Rochester, U.S. Army, Medal for Merit; William G. Jameson, Pittsford, U.S. Army, Medal for Merit; Richard S. Maas, Rochester, U.S. Army, Conspicuous Service Star and Medal for Merit with two silver devices, Donald J. Makely, Rochester, U.S. Army, Conspicuous Service Cross; John W. Miller, Rochester, U.S. Marine Corp, Conspicuous Service Star and Medal for Merit with four silver devices; Alfred J. Mustardo, Pittsford, U.S. Army, Medal for Merit with one silver device; William Ribble, Penfield, U.S. Marine Corps, Medal for Merit with one silver device; Sam Sanza (posthumously), West Henrietta, U.S. Army, Medal for Merit with one silver device; David J. States, Pittsford, U.S. Army, Medal for Merit; Richard Woodring, Victor, U.S. Army, Medal for Merit; Edwin Zykow, Rochester, U.S. Air Force, Medal for Merit with two silver devices.