Senator Bill Larkin Honors Local Veteran

Donald Bernstein Inducted Into the Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame

Senator Bill Larkin (R-C, Cornwall-on-Hudson) nominated Donald Bernstein from Highland Mills, NY to the New York State Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame at a ceremony held in Albany.

“It is a great honor for me to nominate Donald Bernstein to the Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame,” said Senator Larkin.  “Don is an outstanding patriot and a tremendous asset to his community.  His work with the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) is paving the way for future military and academic leaders.  I am proud to call Don my friend and he is a wonderful addition to the Veterans’ Hall of Fame.”

Mr. Bernstein attained the rank of Colonel before retiring from the Army after 27 years of active duty service.  He joined the Army in 1957 as a Second Lieutenant with an Infantry commission and was in the Infantry for 15 years and served as an Army Aviator for twelve years.  During his time in the Army, Mr. Bernstein received numerous commendations for his outstanding service.  In particular, he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and subsequently First Oak Leaf Cluster and 17 Air Medals. 

After retirement, Mr. Bernstein accepted a position as Senior Army Instructor for the Valley Central High School’s JROTC program where he created an Aviation Ground School graduation elective.  In addition to teaching, Mr. Bernstein is very active in his community with membership in numerous veterans’ organizations. 

The New York State Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame was created to honor and recognize outstanding veterans from the Empire State who have distinguished themselves both in military and civilian life.  Their meritorious service to our nation deserves the special recognition that only a Hall of Fame can provide as a fitting expression of our gratitude.

Mr. Bernstein’s full biography can be found here:  http://www.nysenate.gov/story/donald-bernstein