SENATOR WALCZYK HONORS MORRISON JOHN HOSLEY JR. AT 20TH ANNUAL VETERANS HALL OF FAME CEREMONY
May 29, 2025
On Tuesday, May 27, Senator Mark Walczyk proudly recognized Morrison John Hosley Jr., affectionately known as “Hoss,” at the Senate's 20th Annual Veterans Hall of Fame ceremony. This event honors distinguished veterans whose contributions have significantly enriched the quality of life in their communities.
Hoss Hosley, a graduate of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1961, enlisted in the United States Army that August, showcasing his commitment to service from an early age. He distinguished himself during his basic training at Fort Dix, where he was named Trainee of the Year. Following this, he attended Pharmacy School at Fort Sam Houston and was assigned to Fort Richardson, Alaska.
In 1963, Hosley was commissioned and took command of the 64th Field Hospital. His leadership was pivotal during the Great Alaska Earthquake in 1964, as his unit established a field hospital in the wake of the disaster that destroyed the seven-story Air Force hospital.
Married nearly 60 years to Loretto Ehrbar, Hoss continued to advance his military career, attending Army management school and transitioning the Fort Hood base hospital into a modern medical facility. He became a highly skilled Medivac pilot during two tours in Vietnam, earning numerous commendations, including the Silver Star for valor, Distinguished Flying Cross, two Bronze Stars, and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry.
After separating from active duty in 1972, Hosley continued his service in the Army Reserves until his retirement as a full Colonel in 1992. His commitment to public service did not end with his military career; he served on the local school board, including ten years as President, and was the Town Supervisor for sixteen years. Hosley has also been a longstanding member of the Board of Directors for Tupper Lake National Bank and has significantly contributed to the local economy through his family's businesses, including the flagship Hoss's Country Corner.
Senator Walczyk stated, “Morrison John Hosley Jr. embodies the spirit of service and dedication to our community and country. His remarkable achievements reflect not only his courage and resilience as a soldier but also his compassionate leadership as a public servant. Hoss has continually demonstrated an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those around him, both in times of crisis and in everyday life. His legacy of public service, coupled with his deep-rooted connections within his community, make him a truly deserving honoree in our Veterans Hall of Fame. It is an honor to recognize Hoss for his extraordinary contributions and to celebrate the impact he has made throughout his lifetime.”
Hoss Hosley, a graduate of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1961, enlisted in the United States Army that August, showcasing his commitment to service from an early age. He distinguished himself during his basic training at Fort Dix, where he was named Trainee of the Year. Following this, he attended Pharmacy School at Fort Sam Houston and was assigned to Fort Richardson, Alaska.
In 1963, Hosley was commissioned and took command of the 64th Field Hospital. His leadership was pivotal during the Great Alaska Earthquake in 1964, as his unit established a field hospital in the wake of the disaster that destroyed the seven-story Air Force hospital.
Married nearly 60 years to Loretto Ehrbar, Hoss continued to advance his military career, attending Army management school and transitioning the Fort Hood base hospital into a modern medical facility. He became a highly skilled Medivac pilot during two tours in Vietnam, earning numerous commendations, including the Silver Star for valor, Distinguished Flying Cross, two Bronze Stars, and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry.
After separating from active duty in 1972, Hosley continued his service in the Army Reserves until his retirement as a full Colonel in 1992. His commitment to public service did not end with his military career; he served on the local school board, including ten years as President, and was the Town Supervisor for sixteen years. Hosley has also been a longstanding member of the Board of Directors for Tupper Lake National Bank and has significantly contributed to the local economy through his family's businesses, including the flagship Hoss's Country Corner.
Senator Walczyk stated, “Morrison John Hosley Jr. embodies the spirit of service and dedication to our community and country. His remarkable achievements reflect not only his courage and resilience as a soldier but also his compassionate leadership as a public servant. Hoss has continually demonstrated an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those around him, both in times of crisis and in everyday life. His legacy of public service, coupled with his deep-rooted connections within his community, make him a truly deserving honoree in our Veterans Hall of Fame. It is an honor to recognize Hoss for his extraordinary contributions and to celebrate the impact he has made throughout his lifetime.”
Newsroom
Go to Newsroom