Ritchie Honors World War II Veteran Glenn Dodge with Induction into the New York State Senate's "Veterans' Hall of Fame"

Nominated by Senator Ritchie for his service and sacrifice, as well as his work to improve his community, Major Glenn Dodge—a 101-year-old WWII veteran—was officially inducted into the New York State Senate’s ‘Veterans' Hall of Fame’ during a special ceremony in Albany Tuesday.

A resident of the Jefferson County Village of Chaumont, Glenn Dodge was born in Ogdensburg, New York in 1917.  After earning his degree from Potsdam Normal School in 1937, he began teaching classes in a rural schoolhouse on the St. Lawrence River’s Grindstone Island. He would teach those classes until 1941, when he became a member of the United States Army.

Major Dodge served in World War II with the 28^th, 317^th, and 333^rd Infantries from 1941-1945.  His service is highlighted by his roles in both the Battle of the Bulge and helping to secure Odeigne, Belgium.  Major Dodge is credited with leading a reconnaissance patrol deep into enemy territory and directing the capture of 18 Germans. From these individuals, he gained information important to future operations and helped secure a large quantity of enemy weapons.

After active duty, Major Dodge joined the Army Reserve, where he would serve until his retirement in 1967. His military awards include the pre-Pearl Harbor Atlantic Defense and European Service Awards, Purple Heart, Bronze Star for Valor and the New York State Distinguished Service Medal.

“Major Glenn Dodge is the perfect example of why those who served our country during World War II are referred to as the ‘Greatest Generation,’” said Senator Ritchie.

“Not only did he bravely—and proudly—serve his country as a member of the United States Army, he has dedicated his post-service life to the betterment of his community, and impressively, at 101 years of age, he continues to make a difference today. Words cannot express how grateful we are for his service, and I am extremely proud that he’s one of the newest members of the New York State Senate’s "Veterans' Hall of Fame.”

Following his military service, Major Dodge returned to teaching, a career that he retired from in 1973. Major Dodge is thought of throughout the North Country as the epitome of a public servant, who throughout the years has dedicated countless hours to a number of local organizations.

Perhaps most notable of Major Dodge’s service to his community, is his involvement with the Lyme Free Library, the All Saints Church in Chaumont and the Chaumont Volunteer Fire Department. In recognition of all he has done for the fire organization—and his community—the Department created the “Glenn Dodge Community Service Award” to recognize those who have followed his example to serve others.

In 2018, the Village of Sackets Harbor hosted its very first Veterans Day Parade. There, Major Dodge served as Grand Marshal and was recognized by hundreds of local people for his military and community service.

(In the above photo, Senator Ritchie is seen presenting Major Glenn Dodge with a plaque commemorating his induction into the NYS Senate ‘Veterans’ Hall of Fame’ at a special ceremony in Albany)