Delaware County WWII Veteran Enshrined In Senate Veterans Hall Of Fame

ALBANY, 05/20/14 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Oneonta) today paid tribute to Edward Rossley of Bovina Center as a 2014 inductee to the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame.

“Edward Rossley 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. Rossley displayed superior bravery and courage while serving our nation and, upon returning home, dedicated himself to the betterment and safety of his community.

“Whether fighting for our freedom on foreign soil or protecting homes and lives as a Bovina fireman, Edward Rossley brought great honor and distinction to every uniform he has worn. 

“My whole-hearted congratulations to Ed 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,” Seward concluded. 

Edward F. Rossley wore multiple uniforms and proudly served our nation in World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.  His decorated military career is matched only by his continued devotion to his fellow service members and his commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of his community. 

Rossley enlisted in the United States Navy in 1943 at the age of fifteen.  He was assigned to the USS Burke, a destroyer escort for the Atlantic Fleet.  He was injured during the invasion of Okinawa and was awarded the Purple Heart for his heroics. 

At the end of World War II, Rossley opted to reenlist in the Army Air Corps.  He served aboard planes transporting cargo in and out of Korea during that war.  He later served with Inspector General teams during the Vietnam War conducting periodic in-country combat performance and readiness reviews.  When he retired in 1970, he had earned thirteen additional medals to go with his Purple Heart. 

In his post-military life, Rossley went on to work for the State University of New York Police at the Delhi campus, retiring in 1990 after twenty years of dedicated and faithful service.  He is a forty-two year member of American Legion Post 190 in Delhi where he has served in a number of leadership roles.  Rossley also spent three decades serving as a member of the Bovina Fire Department including time as captain of the emergency squad.  He has trained and certified countless fire police personnel instilling in them his special sense of service and ensuring his legacy will continue to live on. 

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. 

Rossley was recognized during a special ceremony at the Capitol along with other inductees to the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame.  Rossley’s biography along with those of other inductees, past and present, can be found on-line at www.nysenate.gov/veterans-hall-of-fame.

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Photo: Senator Seward with 2014 New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame inductee Edward Rossley, Bovina Center and members of American Legion Post 190.