Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush (R,C,I-Black River) welcomed St. Lawrence Senior honoree Edward J. Fischer at the annual New York State Senior Citizens’ Day at the Capitol. Fischer is from DeKalb Junction and has been an active volunteer for more than 30 years.

“It is an honor to recognize Edward Fischer for his contributions to our country and community at the annual New York Senior Citizens’ Day,” said Blankenbush. “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, New Jersey. In 1949, he joined the military and served for 20 years active duty. It was at Ft. Drum that he met is 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 December 6, 1941 for acts of heroism, meritorious achievement or meritorious service.

More recently, 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.