CHENANGO FORKS - In the hallways of the Chenango Forks school building, there is a gentleman known as ‘Mr. Fish’, a School Resource Officer. However, before his career in school safety, Sergeant Rob Fish served the country through the United States Marine Corps, NY Army National Guard, NY Air National Guard, and multiple law enforcement agencies.
In May, NY Senator Peter Oberacker (Schenevus) inducted Fish into the ‘New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame’.
“Sergeant E-5 Robert L. Fish is a true patriot, and his service to our nation and his community deserves the highest recognition. It is my esteemed honor to select him as my 2024 inductee into the New York State Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame,” said Senator Oberacker. “Robert’s contributions, both at home and abroad epitomize the definition of hero. Along with serving his country, Robert took on a post-military career in law enforcement and has also volunteered with local fire rescue squads. Throughout his life, Robert has displayed great devotion and commitment to others.
Fish entered service with the U.S. Marine Corps in June of 1997 and after completing training was stationed with the 2nd Battalion 8th Marines which included assignments in Japan and South Korea in support of Operation Freedom and Foal Eagle. Later he served in Panama as part of the security force for the Panama Canal and in Greece for a NATO/ Maritime Pre-Positioning exercise.
Shortly after completing his time with the Marine Corp, the tragic events of September 11, 2001, occurred prompting Robert to join the New York Army National Guard. His deployments included security duty in New York City, direct support of Operation Enduring Freedom 5 in Afghanistan, and over watch security and route clearing for the beginning stages of Afghanistan’s National Highway.
Sergeant Fish then enlisted in the New York Air National Guard and was stationed at Stratton ANG Base in Schenectady as an Airport Crash Fire Rescue Fire Fighter. He was activated and stationed in Kuwait in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.
Sergeant Fish received numerous awards and honors during his service including Army Commendation Award, Air Force Meritorious Unit Award, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, Air Reserve Forces Meritorious Service Medal, National Defense Medal, New York State Conspicuous Service Star, New York State Defense of Liberty Medal, and New York State Meritorious Service Medal.
Following his time with the military, Robert embarked on a 17-year career with the Broome County Sheriff’s Office and continues to answer the call to service as a School Resource Officer with the Chenango Forks School District.
MEDIA COVERAGE:
WBNG:
Chenango Forks School Resource Officer inducted into New York State Veterans’ Hall of Fame (wbng.com)
FOX 40:
Chenango Forks SRO inducted into State Senate Veterans' Hall of - WICZ