Erie County Clerk Chris Jacobs, Congressman Brian Higgins and other distinguished guests took time to honor the heroic actions of a WWII hero, Rear Admiral C. Wade McClusky.
McClusky, who attended South Park High School, was a navy veteran and native of Buffalo. His efforts have been recognized at the national level, but until now he had received no local recognition.
This event honored McClusky’s service, sacrifice, and impact on the outcome of Midway. The ceremony was held on the U.S.S. Little Rock at the Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park.
June 4th - 7th marks the 74th Anniversary of the Battle of Midway, which many regard as the most important naval battle of World War II.
“I believe, as do many others, that local recognition is long overdue,” stated Jacobs.
“It is a special honor to be able to recognize Admiral McClusky’s service to our country in his hometown of Buffalo,” added Congressman Higgins.
Jacobs added that he hopes this ceremony will help increase awareness, which in turn would lead to organizing a formal McClusky Monument Committee. This committee would raise funds to build a memorial at the Naval Park and at South Park High School in time to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of the Battle of Midway in 2017.
Also taking part in this ceremony was the South Park High School JROTC Color Guard, U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps and the Newel-Faulkner American Legion Post 880 who performed a 21-gun salute.
