A local man who served his country for more than two decades, initially with the Air Force in Vietnam and then with the Army, is State Senator Pam Helming’s 2023 Inductee to the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame.
Kenneth Winkler, of Victor, served in the U.S. military for 22 years, first with the Air Force in Vietnam and then with the Army, where he received his wings and warrant officer bars and advanced flight training on Huey helicopters. Mr. Winkler further served in Cambodia, Laos, and Germany and in numerous other overseas missions.
On February 28, 1971, Mr. Winkler earned the prestigious Distinguished Flying Cross for his heroic actions as a pilot and gunner of an AH-1G armed helicopter supporting a battalion of ARV troops under siege in Laos. Among his additional military honors, Mr. Winkler received four Bronze Stars, 34 Air Medals, three Meritorious Service Medals, and the New York State Conspicuous Service Cross and Conspicuous Service Star. He has been an active member of American Legion-James Cooke Post 931 for over 20 years
Senator Helming said, “Ken Winkler is a true patriot who served our nation with unwavering courage and commitment. When his military service ended, Mr. Winkler went on to serve his community and fellow Veterans. He has my deepest appreciation and respect and I am honored to see his name and contributions enshrined in the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame.”
Read Mr. Winkler’s biography below:
