The occasion was the nomination of the Army veteran of the Vietnam War for the Veterans Hall of Fame for the 40th state Senate district, an initiative promoted by state Sen. Greg Ball.
Suzi McDonough, Ball’s chief of staff, read aloud a proclamation in Griffin’s honor before he posed for photos with family and members of the local American Legion post.
In his remarks, Griffin said it is very important “that we remember all our veterans.”
Recalling his military service, Griffin noted that he “did what I thought was my duty for my country.”
The deputy mayor also brought attention to troops currently serving and to veterans in the American Legion.
“They all are heroes,” he said.
Mayor Michael Cindrich read an extensive biography on Griffin, which mentioned both his military service and his service in village government. It notes that Griffin was drafted into the Army and served in Vietnam from 1967-68. This service included fighting in the Tet Offensive against North Vietnamese troops and the Viet Cong.
Griffin, the biography notes, was promoted to sergeant E-5 and received awards that included the Army Commendation Medal, the National Defense Service Medal and the Vietnam Campaign Medal.
Cindrich repeatedly noted Griffin’s involvement with the local American Legion post, including as a past commander. He also noted Griffin’s village positions, which included seven years on the Planning Board and service on the Village Board of Trustees since 2003.
Griffin’s wife, Grace, was given a bouquet of flowers on the village board’s behalf. They were presented by Linda Cindrich, the mayor’s wife.
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