Advisory Board
Major General (Ret.) John C. Andonie, MS
Former Commanding General, District of Columbia National Guard · Deputy Director, Army National Guard · Trustee/Advisor, Friends of the NYS Military Museum
Major General (Ret.) John C. Andonie began his distinguished military career upon receiving a commission from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1989. He served on active duty in the United States Army from May 1989 to October 2000, after which he continued his service with the New York Army National Guard until December 2020.
In January 2021, General Andonie relocated to Washington, D.C., to serve as the Deputy Director of the Army National Guard, where he contributed to national-level policy, readiness, and force development initiatives. In September 2023, he assumed command of the District of Columbia National Guard, becoming responsible for the strategic leadership, readiness, and operational employment of both Army and Air Force components supporting the nation’s capital. He served as Commanding General until his retirement on October 1, 2025.
Over the course of his career, General Andonie held a broad range of command and senior leadership assignments at the tactical, operational, and strategic levels. He is a combat veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom (2004–2005), bringing firsthand experience in joint operations, national defense, crisis response, and organizational leadership.
General Andonie holds a Master of Science in Management from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and a Master of Strategic Studies from the United States Army War College. His military decorations include the Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, and seven Meritorious Service Medals. He is also a recipient of the Order of St. George and the Order of St. Maurice, recognizing exceptional service in the armor and infantry communities.
In retirement, Major General Andonie remains actively engaged in veteran and community service. He serves on the boards of the Rainbow Division Veterans Foundation and the West Point Society of the Capital District, continuing his lifelong commitment to leadership, service, and the preservation of military heritage.
General Andonie resides in Clifton Park, New York, with his wife, Kathleen.
Alyssa Barringer, MS, CPA
Accountant (CPA) · Business Leader · Friends of the NYS Military Museum
Alyssa Barringer is an experienced accounting professional and business leader who served as Treasurer and Chair of the Finance Committee for the Friends of the New York State Military Museum. In this role, she provided essential financial oversight, managed the organization’s budgeting and reporting efforts, and still advises on strategic planning to ensure long-term financial sustainability in support of the museum’s mission.
Professionally, Alyssa is a Tax Manager at Saratoga Business Advisors, where she delivers accounting, tax, and consulting services to a diverse client base. Prior to her current role, she spent five years at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) in New York City, serving in positions of increasing responsibility. Her experience at one of the world’s leading professional services firms has given her deep insight into corporate finance, tax strategy, and regulatory compliance.
Alyssa holds a Master’s degree in Professional Accountancy and Taxation and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Bryant University. She is a licensed Certified Public Accountant in New York State and is recognized for her accuracy, integrity, and steadfast commitment to ethical standards and client service.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Alyssa’s commitment to the museum is rooted in a personal connection to military service. Both of her grandfathers proudly served in the U.S. Armed Forces during the Vietnam War, instilling in her a deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by veterans and their families. Through her service to the museum, she seeks to honor their legacy while supporting efforts to preserve military history, educate the public, and inspire future generations.
Colonel (Ret.) Raymond J. “Jack” Clark
U.S. Army Veteran · Gold Star Father · Community Leader · Advisory Board, Friends of the NYS Military Museum
Colonel (Ret.) Raymond J. “Jack” Clark served more than 30 years in uniform following his commissioning as a Second Lieutenant in 1971 through the Siena College ROTC Program. His career reflects a deep commitment to soldier development, operational leadership, and service to the nation across both the Army National Guard and the United States Army Reserve.
In 1973, Colonel Clark joined the New York Army National Guard, serving with the 210th Armor in a wide range of leadership and staff assignments, including Redeye Section Leader, Heavy Mortar Platoon Leader, Tank Company Executive Officer, Tank Company Commander, and Battalion Motor Officer. His early career combined tactical leadership with operational and logistical expertise.
In 1980, he transferred to the United States Army Reserve and was assigned to the 1157th USAR School, where he served as a Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical (NBC) Warfare Defense Instructor, Officer Advanced Course Instructor, and Director of the Military Occupational Specialty Branch. He later served with the 4th Battalion, 389th Regiment as Battalion S-3 (Operations and Training Officer), Battalion Executive Officer, and ultimately Battalion Commander.
Colonel Clark returned to the 1157th USAR School as a CAS3 (“CAS Cube”) Combined Arms Staff Service School Small Group Instructor before concluding his military career at Fort Totten, New York, as Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations (G-3) with the 77th Regional Support Command.
His professional military education includes the U.S. Army Air Defense and Armor Officer Basic Courses, Armor Officer Advanced Course, Battalion Motor Officer Course, NBC Instructor Course, Officer Advanced Instructor Course, CAS3 Instructor Course, and the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College. His military decorations include the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and Army Achievement Medal.
In civilian life, Colonel Clark retired from the United States Postal Service in 2010 after 35 years of service, holding senior roles including Manager of Quality Control, Budget and Financial Analyst, and Manager of Statistical Programs for the Albany Customer Service District, which encompassed half of Upstate New York.
Colonel Clark has been married for 55 years to his wife, Kathleen Murphy. He is the father of Todd (Lieutenant Colonel Todd J. Clark, Texas A&M Corps of Cadets ’94, killed in action in Afghanistan on June 8, 2013, during a green-on-blue attack) and Kyle. He is also a proud grandfather to CPT Collin Clark, Texas A&M Corps of Cadets ’20, currently serving with the U.S. Army in Germany, and Madison Clark, an educator residing in Rensselaer, New York.
His affiliations include the Ancient Order of Hibernians; Elks BPOE Lodge 2480; United States Armor and Cavalry Association (Distinguished Knight, Order of St. George); the 210th Armor Association; American Legion Zaloga Post 1520; Reserve Officers Association; Military Officers Association of America; Association of the United States Army; Wounded Warrior Project; Team Red, White & Blue; and numerous veterans’ organizations. He is a Life Member of the Tri-County Council of Vietnam Era Veterans, a Life Member of the VFW Auxiliary, and a Gold Star Family Member.
Colonel Clark serves on the Advisory Board of the Friends of the New York State Military Museum and is President of the LTC Todd J. Clark Annual Memorial Golf Tournament, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit established in 2013 to support veterans, veteran causes, and veteran organizations. He is also affiliated with Operation Song in Nashville, Tennessee, and co-wrote the song “It Won’t Rain Today” in honor of his son—a tribute to service, sacrifice, and healing.
Lee Coleman
Journalist · Patriot · Decorated Vietnam Era Veteran · Trustee, Friends of the NYS Military Museum
Lee Coleman is a U.S. Army veteran, lifelong journalist, and past Vice President of the Friends of the New York State Military Museum. He served honorably as a Specialist (E-4) from 1968 to 1970 during the Vietnam War era, with the majority of his military service spent as a military policeman at Fort Riley, Kansas. Throughout his life, Lee has been a steadfast advocate for veterans and the preservation of military history.
Lee’s journalism career spanned nearly four decades, marked by deep community engagement and trusted reporting. He spent more than eight years at the Post-Star newspaper in Glens Falls as both a reporter and editor, followed by 31 years as a reporter for the Daily Gazette of Schenectady. Nearly 30 of those years were spent at the Gazette’s Saratoga Springs bureau, with his final years based out of the Ballston Spa bureau.
During his career, Lee covered local government, politics, environmental issues, and regional history, along with feature stories tied to the summer racing season at Saratoga Race Course and life along the backstretch in Saratoga Springs. His work reflected a deep respect for civic life, public service, and the communities he covered.
A cum laude graduate of St. Bonaventure University, Lee earned a bachelor’s degree in English with a minor in philosophy. After leaving the Army, he pursued graduate coursework in journalism at Penn State University. His lifelong commitment to documenting history and public service naturally aligns with the mission of the Friends of the New York State Military Museum, where he continues to support outreach and public engagement efforts.
Lee’s connection to the Adirondack region is central to both his personal and professional life. He enjoys biking, walking, and golfing in the greater Glens Falls area where he resides. He treasures time with his family, including four grown sons, two teenage granddaughters, and a five-year-old grandson. He lost his wife, Toni Marie, to cancer in 2017 after more than 40 years of marriage.
Greg Dixon, IOM
Chief Strategy Officer, Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce · U.S. Army & Vermont Army National Guard Veteran · Community & Nonprofit Leader
Greg Dixon is a strategist, marketing leader, and community advocate who serves as Chief Strategy Officer at the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce. A veteran of the U.S. Army and the Vermont Army National Guard, Greg brings a mission-focused, results-driven approach to leadership—strengthening organizations through strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and brand-building.
Greg has built a diverse career across economic development, tourism, communications, and consulting. His experience includes serving as Vice President for Tourism at the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, Vice President of Marketing and Communications at Old Sturbridge Village, and Partner at Noonmark Group, LLC. Across these roles, he has led initiatives that support regional growth, destination marketing, organizational performance, and community impact.
He is a magna cum laude graduate of SUNY New Paltz, where he earned a B.S. in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance. He also holds a Professional Certificate in Sustainable Business Practices from the University of Vermont, completed the NYSEDC basic economic development course, and is a 2007 graduate of the Leadership Saratoga program. Greg is also a graduate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Organizational Management program (IOM), reflecting his commitment to professional excellence and chamber leadership.
In addition to his work in the nonprofit and business community, Greg has experience in sports management and collegiate athletics, including service as an Assistant Athletic Director and Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Johnson State College, as well as coaching roles at Bard College and SUNY New Paltz.
Greg has served as an advisory board member or board member for numerous initiatives and nonprofit organizations, including the Saratoga Springs History Museum (where he served as President), Leadership Saratoga, the New York State Travel and Vacation Association, the New York State TPA Council, The Wesley Foundation, and Junior Achievement of Northeastern New York, Inc. He is also a member of the Saratoga Springs Lions Club and the Veterans Business Council of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce.
The Honorable Christopher P. Gibson, PhD
U.S. Army Colonel (Ret.) · Combat Veteran · Former U.S. Representative · Scholar & Author
A lifelong resident of Kinderhook in Columbia County, New York, Christopher P. Gibson enlisted in the New York National Guard at age 17 and later earned an Army ROTC commission at Siena College, graduating magna cum laude with a B.A. in History. He went on to earn advanced degrees at Cornell University, including an M.P.A. and a Ph.D. in Government.
Over nearly three decades of military service, Gibson rose to the rank of Colonel and deployed seven times, including four combat tours in Iraq, with additional deployments to the Persian Gulf War, Haiti, and Kosovo. His decorations include two Legions of Merit, four Bronze Star Medals, the Purple Heart, the Combat Infantryman’s Badge with Star, the Master Parachutist Badge, and the Ranger Tab. For actions in Mosul supporting Iraq’s first national election, his Battalion Task Force earned the Valorous Unit Award; subsequent operations in Tal Afar during Iraq’s 2nd and 3rd national elections earned his Battalion and the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment a second Valorous Unit Award. In his final assignment, he commanded the 82nd Airborne Division’s 2nd Brigade, leading humanitarian relief operations in Haiti following the 2010 earthquake.
After retiring from the U.S. Army in 2010, Gibson was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and served from 2011 to 2017, representing New York’s 20th and later 19th Congressional Districts. In Congress, he served on the House Armed Services Committee, House Agriculture Committee, and the Republican Policy Committee, with a record that included strengthening national security, supporting veterans, expanding rural economic development and broadband access, and advancing improved treatment and awareness for Lyme disease. A supporter of term limits, he announced in January 2015 that he would not seek re-election in 2016.
Gibson’s public service also includes significant academic and policy work. He taught American politics at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point (1995–1998) and earned War College credit as a Hoover National Security Affairs Fellow at Stanford University (2006–2007). He holds an Honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters from the State University of New York (2017) and served as the 12th President of Siena College (2020–2023). He has also served as the Stanley Kaplan Distinguished Visiting Professor of American Foreign Policy at Williams College and as a member of the Hoover Institution’s working group on the role of military history in contemporary conflict.
An accomplished writer and analyst, Gibson is the author of three books: The Spirit of Philadelphia (Routledge, 2025), Rally Point: Five Tasks to Unite the Country and Revitalize the American Dream (Twelve Books, 2017), and Securing the State: Reforming the National Security Decision Making Process at the Civil-Military Nexus (Routledge, 2019; originally published in hardcover in 2008). He has published scholarly articles and commentary on national security and civil-military relations and has appeared as an analyst on outlets including Fox, Newsmax, C-SPAN, and NPR.
Gibson is married to Mary Jo, and they have three children: Katie, Maggie, and Connor. He remains active in civic and veteran organizations in the Kinderhook area, including the American Legion, VFW, NRA, the Knights of Columbus, and St. John’s Church of Valatie.
Garth D. Lloyd
Dedicated Museum Docent · Purple Heart Recipient · Decorated Vietnam Veteran · Trustee, Friends of the NYS Military Museum
Garth D. Lloyd is a decorated Vietnam veteran, Purple Heart recipient, and dedicated museum docent who serves as a Trustee on the Board of the Friends of the New York State Military Museum. With a lifelong commitment to service—both in uniform and in his community—Garth has become a respected advocate for veterans and a vital contributor to the preservation of New York’s military heritage.
Drafted into the U.S. Army in 1969, Garth served with distinction as an 11B Infantryman with the 2nd Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division during the Vietnam War. On February 12, 1970, while conducting combat operations near Cu Chi close to the Cambodian border, he was seriously wounded by a booby trap and medically evacuated to the United States. He was subsequently discharged as a Specialist Fourth Class.
For his bravery and sacrifice, Garth was awarded the Purple Heart, Air Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal.
After returning home, Garth continued his commitment to public service, working in the water treatment department for the City of Saratoga Springs until his retirement in 2012. In retirement, he deepened his service to the veteran community as a mentor in the Saratoga County VA Mentor Program, supporting disabled and returning veterans through peer engagement and advocacy.
Garth has also served for many years as a volunteer docent at the New York State Military Museum, where he plays a key role in welcoming visitors, sharing historical insight, and supporting the Docent Advisory Committee and the Education Opportunity Program. Through these efforts, he has helped engage middle and high school students in military history, using firsthand experience and approachable storytelling to inspire learning and reflection.
In recognition of his enduring service and dedication, Garth was honored as the 2020 Veteran of the Year by the Friends of the New York State Military Museum and the Capital District Chapter of the Association of the United States Army. He and his wife, Diane, reside in Saratoga Springs. Their family continues a legacy of service, including a son who serves as a physician assistant at Albany Medical Center, and grandchildren who carry forward the values of dedication and resilience that define Garth’s life.
Hon. Roy McDonald, MA
Dedicated Public Servant · President Emeritus, Friends of the NYS Military Museum · Purple Heart Recipient & Decorated Vietnam Veteran
Hon. Roy McDonald is a decorated Vietnam War veteran, lifelong public servant, and President Emeritus of the Friends of the New York State Military Museum. A native of Troy, New York, Roy served in Vietnam from 1970–1971 as an Artillery Forward Observer with C Troop, 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division. During his service, he participated in numerous combat assaults along the South Vietnamese and Cambodian borders and in Cambodia itself. For his courage and sacrifice, he was awarded the Purple Heart and other commendations.
Roy was born and raised in the Lansingburgh section of Troy and currently resides in Saratoga County with his family. He graduated from the Lansingburgh public school system, earned an associate degree from Hudson Valley Community College, and received both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the State University of New York at Oneonta. He has been honored as a Distinguished Alumnus by both institutions. Roy is a member of the Saratoga VFW, Saratoga American Legion, Vietnam Veterans of America, and the Lansingburgh Veterans Association.
Roy dedicated more than three decades to public service at the local, county, and state levels. He served for 23 years as Town and County Supervisor for the Town of Wilton and, in 1986, as Chairman of the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors. From 2002 to 2009, he represented the 112th Assembly District in the New York State Assembly, and from 2009 to 2013, he served in the New York State Senate representing the 43rd Senate District.
As Town Supervisor and County leader, Roy’s accomplishments included the complete elimination of local town property taxes for 20 consecutive years, creation of the 3,000-acre Wilton Wildlife Preserve and Park, development of the Gavin Park Complex, establishment of a veterans housing facility, and leadership in Wilton’s highly successful economic development efforts. As a member of the Board of Supervisors, he proposed county budgets that helped make Saratoga County the lowest-taxed county in New York State.
In the State Legislature, Roy authored and championed numerous landmark initiatives, including the New York State Patriot Plans I, II, and III, which expanded safeguards, benefits, and incentives for military personnel, National Guard members, Reservists, and their families. He also authored the Saratoga–Washington on the Hudson Partnership, legislation designed to promote agriculture, open space preservation, tourism, and the protection of Revolutionary War sites throughout the Saratoga region.
Roy has been a leading advocate for disability and autism awareness, inspired by his grandsons Jacob and David, both of whom are on the autism spectrum. He hosted forums across the state to engage families and professionals, sponsored legislation to educate first responders on autism-related interactions, and founded the Saratoga County Autism Council to support education, respite care, and early intervention services.
Professionally, Roy is a banker, having begun his career as a laborer in the same local steel mill where his father and other relatives worked. His civic involvement includes serving on the foundation board of Hudson Valley Community College, the Rensselaer County Commission on Economic Opportunity, and the Saratoga County Economic Opportunity Council. He is also active with the Saratoga-Wilton Elks, Friends of 112th Street Park in Lansingburgh, and the American Irish Legislators Society.
Roy’s extensive community service has earned him numerous honors, including awards from the Saratoga County ARC, Saratoga Economic Development Corporation, Wilton Volunteer Fire Department, Wilton Emergency Medical Squad, New York State Nature Conservancy, Saratoga Plan, the Saratoga Good Scout Award, and induction into the Lansingburgh High School Foundation Hall of Fame.
Roy and his wife, Angelina Zaccagnino-McDonald, are the proud parents of daughters Julie, Jessica, and Stephanie, sons-in-law Matt Veitch and Jeff Youngberg, and grandsons Jacob and David McDonald Veitch. His life and career reflect a deep and enduring commitment to veterans, families, and the communities of New York State.
Chief Warrant Officer 3 (Ret.) Robert Nevins
Congressional Gold Medal Recipient · Combat Medevac Pilot · Decorated Vietnam Veteran · Advisory Board, Friends of the NYS Military Museum
Chief Warrant Officer Three (Ret.) Robert Nevins is a decorated Vietnam War combat veteran, medical evacuation pilot, and nationally recognized advocate for trauma healing and suicide prevention among veterans and first responders. He serves as an Advisory Board Member of the Friends of the New York State Military Museum, contributing invaluable perspective shaped by extraordinary courage, service, and post-war leadership.
Nevins served in Vietnam from 1970 to 1971 as a medevac pilot with the 101st Airborne Division (DUSTOFF), flying hundreds of high-risk rescue missions deep into enemy territory. On January 15, 1971, while conducting an urgent extraction under intense fire, his helicopter was shot down. Despite sustaining severe wounds, Nevins heroically evacuated his fellow crew members from the burning aircraft—an act of valor for which he was awarded the Soldier’s Medal, the U.S. military’s highest award for heroism outside of combat.
His military decorations include three Distinguished Flying Crosses, the Purple Heart, multiple Air Medals, and numerous citations for aerial achievement and bravery. In recognition of his service and impact, he was named New York State’s Vietnam Veteran of the Year in 1978, received the Veteran of the Year Award from the Friends of the NYS Military Museum and the Capital Region Chapter of AUSA in 2016, and in November 2024 was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for his pioneering role in helicopter medical evacuation during the Vietnam War.
Following his military service, Nevins continued flying with the New York Army National Guard and later as a commercial airline captain for 24 years. On September 11, 2001, he was airborne and successfully diverted his aircraft to Canada as part of the national emergency response. In 2011, he retired from commercial aviation to dedicate himself fully to addressing the invisible wounds of war.
Motivated by a near-death experience in Vietnam and a profound commitment to healing, Nevins co-founded Alliance180, a nonprofit equine-assisted, peer-led program that pairs veterans with retired racehorses to facilitate transformative recovery. His work has expanded to include first responders and healthcare professionals, providing innovative approaches to trauma recovery at a time when suicide rates among these communities have reached crisis levels. To date, he has worked with more than 1,000 participants.
Bob Nevins’ legacy is defined by courage under fire, compassionate leadership, and an unwavering dedication to the physical and emotional well-being of those who serve. As a trusted advisor to the Friends of the New York State Military Museum, he continues to champion the preservation of military history while advocating for healing, resilience, and hope within America’s military community.
Captain (Ret.) William S. O’Brien
United States Naval Reserve · Naval Aviator · Senior Command Leader · Advisory Board, Friends of the NYS Military Museum
Captain William S. O’Brien is a distinguished United States Naval Reserve officer and career naval aviator whose service spanned active duty and reserve assignments of increasing responsibility during the Cold War, Vietnam War, and post–Cold War era. He graduated from the State University of New York and entered the Naval Aviation Officer Candidate Program in 1970, earning his naval aviator wings in September 1971.
Following Replacement Air Group training with VP-31 at Moffett Field, California, Captain O’Brien joined Patrol Squadron VP-17 and deployed in March 1972. He completed three deployments to Southeast Asia in support of Seventh Fleet operations in North and South Vietnam and also participated in Persian Gulf operations flying out of Bandar Abbas, Iran.
While operating from U-Tapao, Thailand, Captain O’Brien was decorated for the initial location of the hijacked U.S. merchant ship Mayaguez and for his support of the combat operation that led to the vessel’s rescue—despite his aircraft coming under hostile fire from Cambodian naval units. During this period, VP-17 was awarded the Battle “E” for operational excellence.
In 1975, Captain O’Brien reported to Ocean Systems Pacific Command as Operations Officer of the SOSUS station at Centerville Beach, California, where he directed a major tactical equipment upgrade that resulted in the facility’s designation as the operational reporting center for West Coast SOSUS stations.
He affiliated with the Naval Reserve in March 1978 and joined VP-66, serving as Safety Officer, Administrative Officer, and Executive Officer. His operational leadership contributed to the squadron receiving the national Liberty Bell Trophy for tactical excellence. Captain O’Brien later commanded VP-66 from December 1988 to August 1990, overseeing two operational deployments to the eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean in support of CTF-84 and CTF-67.
Captain O’Brien was subsequently selected as Commanding Officer of Readiness Unit 902 in the Surface Reserve Force. During Operation Desert Storm, the unit mobilized 30 percent of its personnel to support operations at a destroyer tender, ship repair facility, and Fleet Hospital 15 in Saudi Arabia.
He later served as Executive Officer of COMSTRIKFLTLANT-102, the primary reserve component of Commander Second Fleet and a major subordinate-at-sea command of NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Atlantic (SACLANT), providing direct support to the afloat battle staff aboard USS Mount Whitney.
From October 1995 to October 1997, Captain O’Brien served as Commanding Officer of Naval Air Station Keflavik, Iceland, overseeing major NATO base upgrades with a Seabee detachment. He then commanded Naval Station Rota, Spain, from October 1997 to October 1998. In October 1998, he was selected as the first Commanding Officer of NSA Souda Bay, Crete, leading the newly established reserve command supporting eastern Mediterranean and Balkan operations through October 1999.
Captain O’Brien’s military decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, and numerous personal, service, and campaign awards. His career reflects exceptional leadership, operational excellence, and a lifelong commitment to the United States Navy and its missions worldwide.
Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Patrick Piccirilli, MBA
AUSA & MOAA Member · Dual-Service U.S. Navy & U.S. Army Veteran
Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Patrick Piccirilli is a dual-service U.S. Navy and U.S. Army veteran, civic leader, and dedicated military historian who currently serves as Vice President and Trustee of the Friends of the New York State Military Museum. A career officer and lifelong advocate for veterans, his leadership spans five decades across military service, public administration, and higher education.
Born and raised on Staten Island, New York, Patrick enlisted in the U.S. Navy Reserve following his graduation from St. Peter’s Boys High School in 1964. After graduating from Pace University, he was called to active duty in 1968 and served as a Yeoman Second Class at the U.S. Naval Reserve Training Center in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, supporting oceangoing minesweeper crews. After completing active duty, he continued his Naval Reserve service while beginning a civilian career in pharmaceutical sales.
In 1979, Patrick earned a direct commission in the U.S. Army Reserve Medical Service Corps. He served with the 331st and 364th General Hospital Units and later became an Individual Mobilization Augmentee (IMA), serving as Garrison Comptroller at Fort Detrick, Maryland until his retirement in 1995. His military decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Naval Reserve Meritorious Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the Armed Forces Reserve Medal.
In civilian life, Patrick built a distinguished 28-year career with the New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH), holding leadership roles at Letchworth Village, Utica-Marcy Psychiatric Center, Middletown Psychiatric Center, and Capital District Psychiatric Center. He also served as an adjunct instructor at New School University and co-founded Fairport Financial, a financial advisory firm.
Following his retirement from state service, Patrick continued supporting military education as an Outreach Assistant for Military Programs at SUNY Empire State College. He is a life member of MOAA, the American Legion Zaloga Post, and the Tri-County Council of Vietnam Era Veterans. His service has been recognized with the American Red Cross Real Heroes Military Award (2019), and he was nominated by the Jewish War Veterans Albany Post 10 and received the Four Chaplains Brotherhood Award (2022).
Patrick comes from a proud lineage of military service. His father, a U.S. Army Sergeant, was captured during the North African campaign in World War II and spent more than two years as a prisoner of war. His son, Sean, is a U.S. Air Force Colonel serving at the Pentagon. Patrick is a proud father and grandfather, and his deep respect for military service continues to inspire his ongoing commitment to honoring New York’s veterans.
As a former Vice President of the Friends of the NYS Military Museum, Patrick plays a vital role in advancing educational initiatives, preserving historical artifacts, and ensuring the stories of New York’s service members are shared and remembered for generations to come.
Master Chief Petty Officer, USN (Ret.) William (Bill) F. Schmeelcke
American Legion Post 70 Commander · 27-Year U.S. Navy Veteran · Docent Volunteer & Advisory Board Member, Friends of the NYS Military Museum
Master Chief Bill Schmeelcke is a highly decorated United States Navy veteran whose 27-year career spanned the Cold War and Operation Desert Shield. He served in the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program aboard Nimitz-class aircraft carriers including USS Nimitz, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, and USS George Washington. His service at sea took him to every corner of the globe and placed him at the forefront of naval readiness during a critical era of American military history.
In addition to his operational assignments, Master Chief Schmeelcke served as an instructor and class advisor at the Naval Nuclear Propulsion School and as the senior enlisted instructor at the Kesselring Site Naval Nuclear Prototype Training Unit in Ballston Spa, New York. He was certified as a Master Training Specialist in the Naval Nuclear Power Program, reflecting his exceptional leadership in technical instruction and mentorship.
His military decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal; Navy Commendation Medal (two awards); Navy Achievement Medal (two awards); Navy Good Conduct Medal (seven awards); along with numerous unit and campaign awards recognizing sustained excellence and dedication to duty.
After retiring from the U.S. Navy in 2003, Bill pursued a second career as a Project Manager in pharmaceutical construction commissioning and validation, working in the field until 2015. Following his civilian retirement, he dedicated himself to community and volunteer service. He is active at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Malta, where he serves on the church council and as church secretary.
Bill is a longtime docent volunteer at the New York State Military Museum and serves on the Docent Advisory Board. He also served as a Trustee of the Friends of the NYS Military Museum from 2019 to 2022 and continues to support the organization as an Advisory Board Member. A member of the American Legion since 2000, he has held leadership roles at both the Post and County levels and currently serves as Commander of American Legion Post 70.
His community service extends to delivering Meals-on-Wheels weekly to Saratoga County residents since 2017 and previously volunteering as an AARP Driver Safety classroom instructor, teaching multiple classes each month throughout the region. Bill is currently employed part-time at the Kesselring Nuclear Facility as a security escort for uncleared contractors.
Bill has been happily married to his high school sweetheart, the former Linda Gilluly, since September 11, 1979. They have lived in Greenfield Center since 1999 and are proud parents of their son Billy and daughter-in-law Thanagi, as well as grandparents to two wonderful grandchildren. His life reflects a continued commitment to service, education, and community well beyond his years in uniform.
Brigadier General (Ret.) F. David Sheppard
Combat Helicopter Pilot · Bronze Star for Valor Recipient · Former NYS Homeland Security Director · Advisory Board, Friends of the NYS Military Museum
Brigadier General (Ret.) F. David Sheppard began his military career in 1970 with U.S. Army Basic Training at Fort Polk, Louisiana, before graduating from the U.S. Army Helicopter Pilot Flight School at Fort Rucker, Alabama, in 1971. After earning his Army aviator wings, he deployed to South Vietnam in 1972, where he served as a combat helicopter pilot, flying 841 combat hours during his one-year tour.
Following his Vietnam service, General Sheppard completed active duty as an Instructor Pilot at Fort Rucker and later joined the New York Army National Guard in 1975. Over the course of his Guard career, he held numerous senior leadership positions including Director of Aviation and Safety, Chief of Staff, Deputy Adjutant General of the Division of Military and Naval Affairs, and Commander of the 53rd Troop Command.
General Sheppard played a critical leadership role in coordinating the New York National Guard’s military support to civil authorities following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. He later served as Joint Task Force Commander responsible for protecting critical infrastructure during the 2004 Republican National Convention in New York City, a designated National Special Security Event. He is a rated military and commercial fixed-wing and rotary-wing aviator.
His military decorations include the Bronze Star for Valor, the Bronze Star for Meritorious Service, an Air Medal for Valor, fifteen Air Medals for Combat Missions, the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Bronze Star, the Army Aviation Broken Wing Award, and the New York State Governor’s Medal for Valor.
In his civilian and academic career, General Sheppard served as a Public Service Professor at the Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy at the University at Albany. He also served as Director of the New York State Office of Homeland Security from 2006 to 2008, where he led statewide homeland security strategy, counterterrorism coordination, infrastructure protection, and emergency preparedness initiatives.
As Director of Homeland Security and head of the State Weapons of Mass Destruction Task Force, he managed more than $2 billion in Federal Homeland Security Grant Program funding across 14 preparedness grant programs. He developed the Critical Infrastructure–Suspicious Activity Report (CI-SAR) model used by intelligence fusion centers and authored numerous classified homeland security advisories and intelligence products.
A native of Utica and raised in the Capital District, General Sheppard holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the State University of New York at Albany, a certificate from Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government, and a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College. He and his wife, Vicki, have one daughter and reside in Niskayuna, Schenectady County.
Command Sergeant Major (Ret.) Robert W. Van Pelt
AUSA Leader · Decorated Vietnam Veteran · Patriot · Advisory Board, Friends of the NYS Military Museum
Command Sergeant Major Robert W. Van Pelt (Ret.) is a highly decorated U.S. Army veteran whose distinguished military career spans more than four decades of Active Duty, National Guard, and Reserve service. Drafted in 1969, he began his service as a Fixed Station Automatic Digital Network Technical Controller with the 1st Signal Brigade in Phu Lam, Vietnam. He later served in Italy with the U.S. Army Strategic Communications Command before transitioning to the New York and Tennessee Army National Guards, where he held key leadership roles including Communications Chief and Construction Chief.
Rising steadily through the ranks, Van Pelt was promoted to Sergeant Major in 1987 and graduated from the U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy (Class 37) in 1991. Over the course of his career, he held a series of significant senior enlisted leadership positions, serving as Command Sergeant Major for the 242nd Signal Battalion, 1st Squadron, 101st Cavalry; the 187th Signal Brigade; the 53rd Troop Command; and the 42nd Infantry Division—one of the most historic formations in the United States Army.
In 2001, he was appointed Command Sergeant Major of the New York Army National Guard, serving in that role until his retirement in 2011. His leadership, mentorship, and commitment to readiness influenced thousands of soldiers across New York State and helped shape the professionalism and performance of the Guard.
After retiring from uniformed service, Van Pelt continued to support the military community through critical civilian roles. He served as the New York National Guard’s ESGR (Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve) Program Manager and later as a Transition Assistance Advisor, helping service members and families navigate the shift to civilian life and employment.
For more than a decade, he has served as a leader within the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Capital District Chapter—first as Treasurer, then as Chapter President, and currently as First Vice President for Membership. He also serves on AUSA’s national Retiree and Veterans Affairs Committee and is Chairman of the Grants Committee for the National Guard & Naval Militia Relief Society of New York.
A passionate advocate for soldiers and veterans, Van Pelt is a member of the Veterans Business Council of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce and serves as the military advisor to Operation Adopt a Soldier. His post-military service was recognized with the 2018 Sergeant Major of the Army William G. Bainbridge Medal, honoring outstanding support to the Noncommissioned Officer Corps and the U.S. Army.
A proud “Soldier for Life,” CSM Van Pelt resides in Malta, New York with his wife, Debbie, and continues to inspire others through a lifetime of selfless service and steadfast dedication to those who serve.