New York State Senator Joseph Griffo has announced the induction of Lawrence “Larry” Badger from New Hartford into the New York State Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame. This honor is designed to recognize veterans from New York who have made significant contributions in both military and civilian life.
Badger, a U.S. Army veteran, served during the Vietnam War, reaching the rank of sergeant. He continues to be actively involved in supporting veterans and their families while preserving the memories of those who have fallen.
Senator Griffo stated, “It is an honor to recognize Larry and all the other men and women who have been inducted into the New York State Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame this year. Larry has selflessly and courageously served his nation with distinction. He remains committed to supporting and advocating for other veterans and their families and continues to be an active, dedicated and instrumental part of several organizations that support veterans in the region. I am grateful for Larry’s service and all that he has done for the veteran community in the 53rd Senate District.”
Badger’s background includes graduating from Thomas R. Proctor High School in Utica before attending Mohawk Valley Community College. He enlisted as a Paratrooper Infantryman during escalating tensions in Vietnam, completing training at Fort Jackson, Fort Gordon, and Fort Benning.
He was assigned to various divisions including the 82nd Airborne Division, 101st Airborne Division, and eventually served with the 173rd Airborne Division in Vietnam where he was promoted to E-5 Squad Leader. His service included participation in multiple campaigns such as Phase III and V of the Vietnam TET Counter Offensive.
After extending his tour by six months, Badger served as a squad leader with the 58th Infantry attached to the 93rd MP Battalion until July 1969. His commendations include a Purple Heart for injuries sustained on March 13, 1968; Bronze Star; Combat Infantry Badge; Army Commendation Medal with “V” device; Vietnam Service Medal; Parachute Badge; Air Medal Citation; Good Conduct Medal; along with three Overseas Service Bars.
Post-military service saw Badger employed by the U.S. Postal Service for over three decades where he held roles such as Chief Steward for the American Postal Workers Union for more than 25 years before retiring in 2008.
His dedication extends beyond his postal career through involvement with numerous veterans’ organizations including serving as vice-president of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 944; finance officer at Military Order of Purple Heart Chapter 490; officer at Masonic War Veterans Post 55; trustee at VFW Yorkville Post 6001; director at Wreaths Across America for Rome, N.Y.; member at New Hartford American Legion Post 1376 among others.
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