Patrick R. Rourk, a former United States Air Force Chief Master Sergeant E-9, has had a distinguished career both in military and civilian roles. He served in Vietnam during 1967 and again from 1968 to 1969. After a 24-year tenure in the Air Force, he retired as a Security Police Superintendent and Director of Security. His service earned him numerous accolades, including the Meritorious Service Medal with five Oak Leaf Clusters among a total of 40 medals and decorations.
Following his military career, Mr. Rourk took on the role of Employment and Training Coordinator for St. Lawrence County before being appointed as the Director of the Veteran Service Department in 1997. He retired from this position on December 31, 2011.
Mr. Rourk remains active in veteran affairs through various positions. He is part of the National American Legion (TAL) Veterans Affairs Rehabilitation Commission Executive Committee and has served as Vice Chair of the Commission. Additionally, he is involved with the TAL National TBI/PTSD Suicide Prevention Committee and acts as both past Chairperson and current consultant for the Veterans Services Committee for the American Legion Department of New York.
He also holds leadership roles within other veteran organizations such as President of the Board of Visitors for St. Lawrence Psychiatric Center and Stand up Commander for New York’s new 9th District Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). His involvement extends to several levels within these organizations.
Mr. Rourk was Enlisted Co-Chair for Fort Drum Retiree Council over four years and continues to serve as an Emeritus advisor to them. Moreover, he contributes to Honor Flight Syracuse as a board member and historian.
His academic credentials include degrees in Criminal Justice and Industrial Security along with a Police Science certificate from the University of Virginia. A graduate from FBI’s National Academy Class 126 -1981, Mr. Rourk has written security policies for Air Force operations.
Residing in Norwood, New York with his wife Patricia, Mr. Rourk’s family includes their son Dean (Sheri), daughter Kelly (Dan), five grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
