Dennis L. Wolfe, Sr.

Dennis L. Wolfe, Sr. was drafted into the United States Army in January 1966. Mr. Wolfe served with the 1st Air Cavalry Division, the first full Army division deployed to Vietnam, from 1967 to 1968, as a Helicopter Crew Chief, including throughout the Tet Offensive in 1968. He achieved the rank of Specialist E-5.

Born and raised in Elmira, New York, Denny Wolfe graduated from Southside High School in 1964.

Once he was discharged in 1968, he returned to Elmira, where he has devoted his life to assisting and honoring area veterans.

As a charter member of Chapter 803 of the Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), in 1993, Mr. Wolfe conceived the idea for and began developing what would become the Vietnam War Museum at 1200 Davis Street in Elmira, approximately one-half mile south of the Woodlawn National Cemetery.

The Museum held its grand opening on May 2, 2009. Honoring the memory of Major Robert H. Schuler, Jr., who was shot down over North Vietnam on October 15, 1965, the Museum is dedicated solely to the Vietnam War in tribute to the sacrifices and service of all Vietnam Veterans.

Noted for its distinctive awning, façade, and row of flags, the Museum is staffed mostly by veteran volunteers and is open to the public free of charge. Additionally, the Museum serves as the home of VVA Chapter 803.

Mr. Wolfe continues to serve as the Museum Director. In 2016, Historic Elmira honored him and Chapter 803 President Larry Sherman with its “Elmira Historic Preservation Award” for their work in adaptively reusing a historic building to create the Museum. Mr. Wolfe, along with his fellow veterans, through the Museum and the work of VVA Chapter 803, gives back to the local community in countless ways, including advocacy and assistance for area veterans, assisting the annual “Wreaths Across America” observance at the Woodlawn National Cemetery, and sponsoring a college scholarship award for local students.

Defined by his deep commitment, steadfast effort, labor of love, and ongoing vision for the Museum he founded, Mr. Wolfe is a proud representative and keeper of the history, sacrifice and service of America’s Vietnam Veterans for future generations.