Delaware County Veteran Enshrined In Senate Hall Of Fame

ALBANY, 05/22/13 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Oneonta) today paid tribute to Kenneth Taylor of Franklin as a 2013 inductee to the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame. 

“Kenneth Taylor is a true American hero, and more than worthy of inclusion in the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame,” said Senator Seward.  “Mr. Taylor displayed superior bravery and courage while in uniform and, upon returning home, dedicated himself to the betterment of his community while continuing to advocate for his fellow veterans.  My whole-hearted congratulations to Ken and his fellow inductees.  Further, my thanks to all veterans past and present.  Your courage, sacrifice and achievement are something each and every American can be proud of.”

During his admirable career as a Vietnam era soldier, Sergeant Taylor served as team leader of six-man long range reconnaissance patrols (LLRP) in Vietnam.  The extremely dangerous missions performed by these units elicited strategic information that saved American lives and provided combat advantages for our forces.  Sergeant Taylor’s courageous service earned him the Combat Infantry Badge, Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Air Medal.

Upon his retirement from active military service, Sergeant Taylor returned to his hometown of Franklin where he continued to serve in a leadership role.  He is a dedicated 45 year member of American Legion Post 1689, serving in various ranking positions of responsibility.  He has also served as a member of the Vietnam Veterans of America since 1979 and became a member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) in 2005. 

The New York State Senate Veterans Hall of  Fame  inductees may be former members  of  any  branch  of  the  United States Armed Forces.  The exceptional men and women are chosen for this prestigious honor based on either  service in combat or notable work performed after discharge from the service.

Taylor was recognized during a special ceremony at the Capitol along with other inductees to the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame.  A legislative resolution (J1938) honoring Taylor and the rest of the hall of fame class of 2013 was adopted unanimously by the state senate. 

Taylor’s biography along with those of other inductees, past and present, can be found on-line at http://www.nysenate.gov/report/2013-veterans-hall-fame-award-recipients.

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