World War II Veteran Honored for Service by New York State Officials as Greatest Generation Dwindles

In a heartfelt ceremony, 99-year-old World War II veteran Kenneth Thayer was recently honored by New York State Senator Joseph Griffo and Assemblyman Brian Miller for his extraordinary military service. Thayer, a decorated combat infantryman, is among the few remaining veterans from a conflict that shaped the course of history and defined a generation.

Thayer was awarded the prestigious New York State Senate Liberty Medal, one of the highest civilian honors in the state. The Liberty Medal recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional, heroic, or humanitarian acts for the benefit of fellow New Yorkers, and in this case, our nation.

“It’s such an important thing to do,” said Senator Griffo to Think American News, “because these individuals, particularly Mr. Thayer, demonstrated courage and a remarkable commitment to this nation in their service.”

Thayer’s military service with Company K of the 119th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, saw him participate in pivotal campaigns such as Operation Market Garden—the Allied effort to seize key bridges over the Rhine River in 1944.

His bravery earned him some of our nation’s highest military honors, including the Distinguished Service Cross, two Bronze Stars, four Purple Hearts, and the Presidential Unit Citation Medal.

In presenting the Liberty Medal, Senator Griffo highlighted the significance of Thayer’s service in a press release: “Kenneth’s selfless service embodies the courage and resilience of America’s Greatest Generation, who faced the most extreme conditions of war with determination and grace.” Assemblyman Miller echoed this sentiment, presenting Thayer with a very special proclamation in recognition of his lifelong commitment to both his country and his community.

Thayer’s recognition comes as the population of surviving World War II veterans is rapidly shrinking. These men and women, born in the early 20th century, lived through the Great Depression and went on to serve during a war that required immense sacrifice. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, only around 150,000 were still alive in 2023, with an estimated 180 passing away each day. By 2034, fewer than 5,000 are projected to remain.

Thayer’s legacy extends far beyond the war. After returning home, he worked for four decades as a civilian supervisor at Griffiss Air Force Base in Rome, New York. He also became a leader in veterans’ organizations and authored a two-volume memoir, The Young Liberators chronicling his wartime experiences.

In addition to his military and civilian contributions, Thayer was recently honored by the people of the Netherlands during the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Limburg Province earlier this fall. He met King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima, reflecting the lasting international impact of his service during the war, which played a critical role in the lead-up to D-Day, a major turning point in the conflict.

Griffo emphasized the importance of honoring our veterans:

“These heroes, especially those like Mr. Thayer, deserve our recognition and appreciation, particularly this generation, who put everything on the line to defend and protect the ideals of our nation.”

As the nation continues to honor veterans like Kenneth Thayer, the recognition underscores the urgency of preserving their stories and legacies. Their courage and character during one of history’s darkest times stand as a testament to the profound influence of the Greatest Generation.