State Senator Tom O’Mara has announced the induction of Scott Ward, a decorated United States Army veteran from Steuben County, into the New York State Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame. The announcement was made on May 27 in Albany.
Ward’s military career began with his commissioning through the ROTC program at Cornell University in 1988. He served in various roles including Infantry Platoon Leader and Light Armored Cavalry Troop Commander, ultimately achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. His service includes deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, where he received numerous awards such as the Bronze Star Medal and Combat Infantryman Badge.
Beyond his military career, Ward is active in local community initiatives. He owns Windydale Farm with his wife Kari and serves on the Bath Central School District Board of Education. He is also Vice President of the Steuben County Farm Bureau.
O’Mara selected Ward to represent his 58th Senate District among approximately 60 veterans inducted this year. “It is a great honor to induct Scott Ward into the Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame,” said O’Mara. “Scott has positively impacted so many lives.”
The statewide induction ceremony took place at the Legislative Office Building in Albany, though Ward was unable to attend and will be recognized locally later.
Ward’s biography highlights his contributions both during and after his military service. After retiring from active duty, he continued serving his community through education and agriculture-related roles.
O’Mara’s previous inductees include notable veterans like Philip C. Smith, J. Arthur “Archie” Kieffer, Roswell L. “Roz” Crozier Jr., Anthony J. “Tony” Specchio Sr., P. Earle Gleason, Warren A. Thompson, Paul C. “Digger” Vendetti, Richard T. “Dick” Gillespie, Dennis L. “Denny” Wolfe Sr., and Merle John Tobias.
Other area veterans honored include Frank C. “Fritz” Pesesky (2005), William K. Kastner (2006), and Robert Laskaris (2008).
