Edward J. Fischer, left, and Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush

Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush (R-Black River) recognized Edward J. Fischer of DeKalb Junction as St. Lawrence County’s honoree at the New York State Senior Citizens’ Day.

Blankenbush said Fischer was honored for being “an active volunteer for more than 30 years.”

Fischer served as chaplain of the DeKalb Senior Citizens and has been a member of the organization for more than 10 years. Additionally, he volunteers for Meals on Wheels, assisting at the nutrition site. He assists his elderly neighbors by checking in on them, bringing them their mail, ensuring they have proper nutrition, and making sure to spend some social time together, according to Blankenbush.

“It is an honor to recognize Edward Fischer for his contributions to our country and community at the annual New York Senior Citizens’ Day,” Blankenbush said in a prepared statement. “We have much to thank our seniors for as they are the ones who helped shape our great communities into what they are today. We are fortunate to have the continued dedication and service of Mr. Fischer and I applaud him for all his contributions to our community.”

Fischer, son of Edward and Minnie Buy Fischer, hails from Jersey City, N.J. In 1949, he joined the military and served 20 years of active duty. It was at Ft. Drum that he met his late wife, Virginia. They were married for 54 years and had one child and a grandchild.

He is a decorated veteran, having received the Good Conduct Medal with two knots, the National Defense Service Medal with one oak leaf cluster, the Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze stars, the Republic of Vietnam campaign ribbon, and the Meritorious Unit Citation. In 1969, he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal, which is reserved for members of the armed services who served after Dec. 6, 1941 who commit acts of heroism, meritorious achievement or meritorious service.