Albany- State Senator Mike Nozzolio honored U.S. Navy veteran John Barwinczok of Auburn for his distinguished military career and dedicated volunteer work to support our local veterans. John was inducted into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame, highlighting the service of a veteran from each Senate District, during a special ceremony at the State Capitol.

John’s six-year Navy career included being a member of the Under Water Demolition Team 2, the precursor to the Navy Seals, and service during the Korean War. He is also the founder and Commander of the Korean War Veterans Association Chapter 296 in Cayuga County. As Commander of Chapter 296, John was Chairman of the project to establish the Korean War monument at Veterans Memorial Park in Auburn and also organized efforts to raise $750,000 to renovate the park.

“I've been honored to work closely with John to support the outstanding efforts of the Korean War Veterans Association of Cayuga County to commemorate our veterans,” said Senator Nozzolio. “His commitment to honoring the lives of those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom is outstanding and I congratulate him for his years of exceptional service to our Nation.”