Funke nominates John G. White to the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame

Rich Funke

May 24, 2016

Senator Rich Funke today announced his nomination of John G. White, a U.S. Marine Corps Infantry Captain, for induction into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame, representing the 55th Senate District. In recognition of his achievement, White will be celebrated alongside veterans from across New York at a ceremony at 11:00 a.m. this morning in Albany.     


“John White personifies the honor, discipline, and valor that our nation’s military men and women demonstrate through their service, both at home and abroad,” said Funke. “It is my incredible honor to nominate John White to the Veterans Hall of Fame – a man who survived the worst of war, but who always has a smile and a helping hand to offer others. Thank you to John and all of our veterans for the selfless contributions they have made to keep America strong.” 


As an infantry Captain in the United States Marine Corps from 1966 to 1973, White served in Vietnam, Guantanamo Bay, Quantico, Camp Pendleton and Camp Lejeune.  He was severely wounded in Vietnam and spent 14 months in various Naval Hospitals.  For his actions in combat he received the Purple Heart and earned The Silver Star Medal.  White is an active member and past President of the Rochester Rotary Club, serves on the Board of Directors of the Rochester General Hospital Foundation, the Reid Petroleum Corporation, and Rochester Steel Treating Works.  He is a core team member of “1 Team 1 Fight”, an organization assisting local veterans, and a committee member for the Gold Star Families Memorial, honoring families who have lost a loved one in combat.  White currently resides in Fairport. 


“The selection for the Veterans Hall of Fame is extraordinary in terms of how humbled I am,” said White.  “When I look at all of the veterans from the State of New York, when I look at all of the veterans that I served with and that I serve on councils and committees and agencies with today, I find this to be an incredible honor.” 


The New York State Senate Veteran’s 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.  The Veterans Hall of Fame is a yearly award program.  To nominate someone for the 2017 award,  submit a 250 word or less biography of a nominee, as well as a current address and contact information, to Funke’s District Office, 230 Packets Landing, Fairport, NY 14450.  Nominations for 2017 will be accepted until May 1, 2017.