Tedisco Posthumously Honors Hadley Vietnam Veteran with NYS Senate Liberty Medal

Hadley, NY—Senator Jim Tedisco (R,C-44^th Senate District) today posthumously presented the New York State Senate Liberty Medal, the Senate’s highest honor for service and valor, to the family of the late Vietnam War veteran John E. Hughes at the home of his widow, Judy Hughes, in the beautiful northern Saratoga County town of Hadley.   

The Liberty Medal was passed via resolution by the New York State Senate.

During the Vietnam War, John served as a radio teletype operator in Vietnam for 13 months. While stationed in the Central Highlands, he assisted in the transportation of soldiers and supplies to and from bases and as a member of Reaction Force Patrols. John received the Army Commendation Medal for Heroism for saving a fellow soldier’s life.

After serving our country, John got married and raised a family in Hadley and worked at Finch Pruyn for over 30 years. John served for 16 years as Assessor for the Town of Hadley. He spent many years as a Little League coach and was an active member of the William J. Varney American Legion Post #862, the VFW Post #5836, the Vietnam Veterans of America, and the Tri-Town Seniors. He passed away in 2017.

“The Vietnam War was not a popular conflict at the time and those that served did not get the parades, thanks and grateful recognition they deserved. The heartfelt recognition for the service of all those who fought in Vietnam like John E. Hughes, is long overdue. I was proud to help honor John’s service to our nation, which we are eternally grateful for,” said Senator Jim Tedisco.

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