FORESTPORT  — At a ceremony on Thursday, Feb. 16, at the Forestport Diner, state Sen. Joseph A. Griffo, R-53, Rome, presented a New York State Senate Liberty Medal to Terrence “Terry” Larkin in recognition of the soon-to-be 102-year-old’s service to the nation. 

The Liberty Medal is one of the highest civilian honors a New Yorker can receive. It is presented to individuals who have merited special commendation for exceptional, heroic or humanitarian acts and achievements on behalf of their fellow New Yorkers. 

“It is an honor to recognize Terry and to present him with a New York State Senate Liberty Medal,” Griffo said. “Veterans like Terry, who selflessly and bravely served his nation in the Army in the Pacific Theater during World War II, deserve to be commended and thanked for their service.” 

Larkin joined the Army on Dec. 28, 1942, and proudly served his country with the 1881st  Engineer Battalion in the Pacific Theater during World War II. From December 1943 to September 1944, the aviation engineers not only participated in 10 major landings, but also facilitated and enhanced tactical and strategic air power for the air forces and supported ground combat units in driving the Japanese out of their respective areas. 

During his deployment, Corporal Larkin saw action in Luzon, Bismarck Archipelago, Southern Philippines and New Guinea, where he was wounded on a mission to observe a Japanese airstrip. 

On Dec. 5, 1945, Larkin was honorably discharged with a rank of Tec 5 from Fort Dix, New Jersey.  For his meritorious service during World War II, Larkin was awarded the Asiatic Pacific Service Medal W/BR Arrowhead, Good Conduct Medal, Philippines Liberation Ribbon W/ 2 Bronze Stars, Purple Heart and World War II Victory Medal.