Ritchie Honors Oswego County Wwii Vet Donald Keeney at Capitol Ceremony

State Senator Patty Ritchie honored Oswego County World War II  veteran Donald Keeney as her 2015 inductee into the New York State Senate “Veterans Hall of Fame” from the 48^th Senate District at a special ceremony held Tuesday at the State Capitol. 

“Among the tales of World War II’s epic battles and horrific conflicts, are stories of ordinary people who rose to the occasion to defend our country,” said Senator Ritchie. 

“Donald Keeney is one of those people who stepped up to the plate and put his life on the line to fight for our freedom. Not only did he dedicate himself to our nation, after completing his service, he went above and beyond to serve his community. In 2015, we marked 70 years since the end of WWII, and today,  I’m humbled to honor him and thank him for his unwavering commitment to making our country and his community a better place.”

Leaving high school early to join the US Marine Corps, Mr. Keeney served in the 3rd Amphibious Marine Division from January 29, 2943 to December 2, 1945, with his career taking him to places such as Guam and Iwo Jima before he was honorably discharged as a Sergeant.  After returning from the war, Mr. Keeney served his community in a number of ways, including as Mayor and Trustee of the Village of Fair Haven and as a Justice of the Peace in the Town of Granby. Mr. Keeney has been married to his high school sweetheart for 69 years and the couple have four children, nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Mr. Keeney was one of 16 veterans who were recognized by Senator Ritchie at a ceremony held last week at the U.S. Army Reserve Center, near Fort Drum.  To learn more about this year’s honorees, please click here.