Enstice Inducted into Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame

Albany, NY– World War II veteran and Clarence resident Harold J. Enstice has been selected– by Senator Michael H. Ranzenhofer– as a New York State Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame inductee for his gallantry in the U.S. Armed Forces and service to the community.

Enstice, as part of Operation Dragoon with the 142nd Infantry Regiment, invaded Southern France and liberated more than 20 cities and towns throughout the country, playing a major role in defeating the Nazi army and ultimately ending the war in Europe.

“Harold is a decorated war hero of the Second World War and a member of America’s Greatest Generation,” said Ranzenhofer. “Harold’s company ran into the toughest kind of resistance during the war, but his platoon stuck it out and survived under his leadership. It is truly an honor to recognize Harold for his service to our country.”

While studying at Union College, Harold enlisted in the U.S. Army in October 1942, attending Camp Wheeler in Georgia. In January 1944, he sailed to southern Italy for a mission to move the Axis line northward, from Salerno to Cassino and Rome, before Operation Dragoon. From October 1942 to December 1945, Harold served in Africa, Italy, France and Germany. 

“For the number of honorees, the Senate did an excellent job recognizing our duty with the United States Army. A special thank you to Senator Mike Ranzenhofer and his staff,” said Enstice. 

Enstice received numerous awards for his distinguished service, including: 2 Bronze Stars, Silver Service Star, the NYS Medal of Merit, the NYS Conspicuous Service Star and NYS Combat Infantry Badge. During his service in Germany, he received the Purple Heart for being wounded in battle. 

Enstice returned home to complete his education and start a career and family. He worked as a business executive in the consumer product and life insurance industries. He is also an active member of the community, participating in the Clarence Chamber of Commerce, Clarence Historical Society and Clarence American Legion. He and his wife, Rosemary, have been married for almost 70 years. They have three children, Kevin, Keith and Mary, as well as nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

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