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JAMESTOWN – A retired United States Air Force Colonel and Chautauqua County Executive, has been inducted into the New York State Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame.
Vince Horrigan was tapped for the honor by State Senator George Borrello, who formally announced the designation during a ceremony held at the Department of Veterans Affairs office on Thursday.
While the event honors one specific veteran, Borrello believes that one outstanding veteran can be a symbol for all.
“So many veterans don’t like to talk about their experiences, said Borrello. “You have so many that suffer, that have physical and mental scars and I think it’s nice to bring to recognition to someone like Vince, and hopefully that other veterans can look to.”
Horrigan, a Bemus resident, logged over 3,500 hours as a fighter pilot. His assignments included service as an Air Force fighter weapons school instructor, NATO tactical systems and readiness evaluator and security assistance program manager; among several other duties.
“These are important things for us to stop and reflect,” explained Horrigan. “I think on Veterans Day and everyday, that there are those who suffer because of one thing, they love this country, they serve with their friends, and they believe in freedom and the ideals that our founding fathers built this country on.”
Every year the Senate Board chooses a Veteran to be inducted into the hall of fame. A process that Borrello says is about the individual’s commitment.
“It’s really about someone who has sacrificed for their community and their nation and that’s why Vince was a perfect choice,” explained Borrello.
The veteran’s hall of fame was created in 2005, to honor veterans who have distinguished themselves in their military service and continue to serve their community.
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