Senator Jim Tedisco has inducted Vietnam War veteran Bert Mahoney into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame. The ceremony took place at the state Capitol in Albany, NY. Mahoney is among 63 inductees representing each of the state’s Senate Districts for 2025.
“Bert Mahoney is a true patriot who served our country with honor and courage and then came home and continued to serve his community as a firefighter and public servant,” stated Senator Tedisco. He emphasized that recognition for Vietnam veterans like Mahoney is long overdue.
Mahoney served as a US Navy Petty Officer Second Class AE-2 from 1964 to 1968, working in aircraft maintenance during three combat tours in Vietnam. He was part of VA-163 on the USS Oriskany, supporting Navy pilot John McCain, who was shot down over North Vietnam.
During its deployments between 1965 and 1968, the Oriskany lost 71 aircraft and 79 service members. In October 1966, an at-sea fire claimed the lives of 44 sailors aboard the ship.
Mahoney received several medals for his service, including the National Defense Service Medal and Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Stars. His post-military career included work at GE Silicone Products for 32 years, retiring as a project engineer/electrical instrumentation supervisor.
In Waterford, Mahoney has been active since 1968 with roles in the Fire Department and serving as Mayor since 1998. He is also involved with various local organizations such as VFW Post 5800 and American Legion Post 235.
Bert Mahoney has been married to Margie “Mike” Mahoney for 57 years. They have two sons and five grandchildren.
The induction ceremony also featured past NYS Senate Hall of Fame inductee Frank McClement, along with Mahoney’s family members.
