Most Recently Honored
| Hugh L. Carey, US Army |
| Contact Information |
Veterans Service Bureau Charles Burkes, Director 112 State St., 9th Floor Office Hours If you would like to meet with Phone: (518) 447-7710 |
Honor A Veteran
James J. Forst, US Army
Albany County Executive Mike Breslin, Congressman Paul Tonko and the Honor-A-Veteran Committee commemorated James J. Forst at a ceremony held on January 5, 2009.
James J. Forst was born on October 29, 1944 in Albany and spent most of his life in Colonie. He joined the Army in 1965 and served in Vietnam, Germany and Korea. Jim was a decorated sergeant and received numerous medals and commendations, including the Silver Star, the Army Commendation Medal with "Valor" Device, and the Purple Heart.
Most of his medals came from his two tours of duty in Vietnam where he consistently sacrificed his own safety in order to protect and lead his fellow soldiers.
Upon returning to the Capital Region, Jim was employed by General Electric for thirteen years and then worked as a mail handler for the United States Postal Service until his retirement in 2000.
Jim was an active member of his community, belonging to the V.F.W. William F. Wigand Post 8444 and volunteering as a Colonie Little League Coach.
The Honor-A-Veteran ceremony is held the first Monday of each month to honor a deceased veteran of the community.
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