Traditionally Speaking…by Pat Larsen - Cook of the Year award goes to….?

The important fact you need to know is the actual amount of time each of us has spent in the kitchen cooking together…in our case, it’s been the better part of 50 years. NOW, rather than one of us showcasing our very best chicken dish or pasta specialty, we seem to be competing for who did it BEST? And so far…well. Read on, you'll see how this ends.

Ok, before I go any further, I am sure if this were posted on a social media page, the trolls would be jumping on the comment section to bash the audacity of complaining about who cooks what better.

To that I say, run along and go order your door dash and leave me alone.

The history…Brooklyn was the place of our original home.

I was taught to cook by my grandmother. A stay at home all her life, gardener who grew the food we consumed, baked our breads, indulged every sweet dream we ever had for all manner of confections and crushed the grapes to make the vino in the wine press that we drank at the holidays. You name the occasion, she knew how to create the perfect compliment of 4 courses plus dessert to suit. 

NO recipes required. The preparations, the ingredients, the setting on the gas oven, the right size pots, the pans on and on.

All these details lived inside her memory…

It was that style of cooking, back in the day, that came from intuition and recollection and true functionality and need to feed the family. Oh, yes, Grandma lived with us even when Grandpa was alive and then afterwards as well.

Moving on with this story… He admits to only having cooked scrambled eggs as a young boy. He used 2 eggs and butter in the pan. 

His claim to fame was how perfectly he created this delicious breakfast once a week.

Fast forward to later on and  to what we now refer to as

THIS LIFE TIME…and suddenly HE’s recreating Sunday SAUCE on the stove and reading recipes for how to make proper meatballs in Lydia Bastiainch’s cook book.

RECIPES????? No one wrote down the ingredients to make a

Meatball…you just MADE THEM.

I’m not going to lie. HIS were good, great, actually. I was giving him lots of praise, sort of, right up until he said that the reason for the success was because he added a magic ingredient…wait a minute!

Meatballs didn’t need magic ingredients. To that he said,

“I just add whatever I feel I want to at the time!”...

NOPE that was not how Grandma did it.

This debate went on until the last meatball was consumed right out of the fridge a few days later. 

That’s when we decided our competitive natures had to be put to the test…who made the best meatballs…and the contest was ON!

We gathered friends, family, neighbors and the mail man.

We wanted a good sampling of trustworthy  palates  who knew how to distinguish the best of the best flavor components that made up a meatball. 

GAME ON!

I think we made 75 meatballs each…concocting our specialty versions in secret many times…they were baked, fried, cooked in sauces, microwaved (bleek, that wasn’t me folks) etc etc. 

The time had finally come to count the ballots that were placed in the giant CONTADINA containers that had been washed out and decorated with HIS OR HERS labels.

And the winner was….!

Pat Larsen is a syndicated columnist, author and fitness instructor for her favorite people, Boomers and Seniors.

Have a story to share or a meatball recipe you want her to try…contact Pat at 518-275-8686.

 

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Veterans Enjoy Mountain Biking Excursion Through ASF's WIM Program

ASF warriors, volunteers and staff pose for a photo at Thacher State Park overlooking New York's Capital District

WINDHAM – Six veterans made the trip to Windham this week for some intense riding during the Adaptive Sports Foundation’s Warriors in Motion® (WIM) mountain biking event.

“This program makes me feel strong again, and that’s not something I feel on a daily basis,” U.S. Air Force veteran Laura Herbst-Agee said, who rode an e-assisted recumbent bike all week. “The ASF has the equipment that I’m able to use to get me out into nature, which is good for the soul.”

The veterans arrived at the ASF’s Gwen Allard Adaptive Sports Center on Tuesday, July 22, at noon to get fitted for the bikes and safety equipment they would use throughout the week. They then mingled with ASF staff and volunteers over lunch before heading to nearby Tannersville to ride the town’s Hathaway Trails.

Before hitting the trail, the group received guidance on how to properly shift gears and operate pedal-assisted e-bikes over rough terrain. Each rider made three runs down “Thriller,” a short and exciting downhill trek, to get a feel for their bikes. One highlight came when U.S. Army veteran Matt Garrad rode a stand-up bike for the first time in 10 years.

After finishing the day’s ride, the group returned to Windham to check into their hotels before reconvening at the ASF lodge for dinner.

On Wednesday, the group traveled north to Thacher State Park in Voorheesville, where they spent the entire day riding in one of the Capital District’s most popular outdoor destinations. Upon arrival at 10 a.m., the riders took in panoramic views of the Capital Region on a clear summer morning.

The group then practiced on the park’s training area, which featured berms and large rocks, before heading into the woods. They tackled the “Long Path” trail, which offered scenic overlooks that served as ideal water break spots. They completed the loop via the “Perimeter” trail, ending back at the training area for lunch under the Hailes Cave pavilion.

In the afternoon, the riders moved on to the Paint Mine and Hop Field trails, where they faced more rocky and rooted terrain. In total, the group covered nearly 11 miles and climbed 790 feet of elevation during Wednesday’s ride alone. They returned to Windham around 3:30 p.m. to rest and clean up before dinner at the ASF.

The final ride of the week came Thursday morning, once again at the Hathaway Trails. This time, the group held a friendly competition: a timed race down “Thriller.” Each participant and volunteer took two runs. Garrad, riding his stand-up bike, claimed victory and bragging rights with a time of 1:18.32—just 0.37 seconds faster than ASF Program Manager Tony Vasile.

After the race, the group returned to the ASF lodge to share stories and laughs over lunch before heading home.

“I come up here from Georgia, and I come up every year to be with my fellow warriors and to enjoy the camaraderie,” U.S. Army veteran Erik Morales-Goroshko said. “The ASF staff treats us very good here, and I’m very grateful for this program.”

The ASF’s next Warriors in Motion event will be a three-day kayaking outing, scheduled for July 29–31.

 

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Justice for Orphans Receives $5,000 Donation from National Bank of Coxsackie - Supporting Vulnerable Children and Families in Albany and Greene Counties

 

From left: Alison Phoenix NBC Athens Branch Manager, Glenda Cukierski NBC Ravena Branch Manager, Trisha Gerstel - JFO Regional Manager East, Liz Roberts-Laura - JFO Board Member, Gene Knoth - JFO Regional Manager South

RAVENA — Justice for Orphans (JFO) is thrilled to announce a generous $5,000 donation from National Bank of Coxsackie (NBC) in support of its mission to serve children and families in crisis. The contribution will be split equally between Albany and Greene Counties, with each county receiving $2,500 to support JFO’s efforts to prevent foster care placements and provide essential resources to vulnerable families.

“We are so grateful for the continued support from the National Bank of Coxsackie,” said Kathi Sewak, Executive Director of JFO. “Their investment helps us mobilize local churches and community members to meet real needs—everything from beds and clothing to utility assistance—keeping children safe and families together.”

In celebration of the donation, NBC hosted a photo opportunity with Justice for Orphans and local branch managers from both counties. The event highlighted NBC’s commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of local children and families.

“Our community banking philosophy is rooted in relationships and local impact,” said Alison Phoenix, Branch Manager of NBC’s Athens Office. “We’re proud to support organizations like Justice for Orphans that are actively strengthening our neighborhoods.”

“Justice for Orphans is doing the hard work of lifting up families when they need it most,” added Glenda Cukierski, Branch Manager of NBC’s Ravena Office. “We’re honored to stand beside them and be a part of such meaningful change in our community.”

Justice For Orphans, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, operates CarePortal across ten New York counties, equipping communities to respond to vetted requests from child welfare professionals.

To learn more about Justice for Orphans or to get involved, visit justicefororphansny.org.

About National Bank of Coxsackie

Since 1852, National Bank of Coxsackie has been the trusted hometown bank for customers and businesses throughout the region. With a commitment to personalized service, NBC continues to provide financial solutions that help individuals, families, and businesses thrive. The bank is a wholly-owned subsidiary of NBC Bancorp, Inc. (OTCPK:NCXS).

For more information, visit www.nbcoxsackie.com or contact your local branch.

 

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Outdoors with Larry DiDonato - DEC Police Lose a Champion

 

New York State Environmental Conservation Officer (ECO) Sean F. Dewey, 64, died on July 25th from complications associated with a heart ailment while visiting family in Florida. Officer Dewey’s career as an ECO began in NYC in 2002. He still served as an active-duty officer in Ticonderoga in Essex County at the time of his passing. Sean had served as an ECO in Delaware County from 2004 to 2008, and in Greene County from 2008 to 2018. 

It is with a heavy heart that I report the loss of a dedicated officer and friend. New York State Environmental Conservation Officer (ECO) Sean F. Dewey, 64, died on July 25th from complications associated with a heart ailment while visiting family in Florida. Officer Dewey’s  career as an ECO began in NYC in 2002. Officer Dewey was still serving as an active-duty ECO in Ticonderoga in Essex County at the time of his passing. Sean had served Region 4 as an ECO in Delaware County from 2004 to 2008, and in Greene County from 2008 to 2018. You can view ECO Dewey’s obituary at: https://gordoncemerickfuneralhome.com/tribute/details/2598/Sean-Dewey/obituary.html#tribute-start 

Sean was more than Greene County’s local ECO for ten years. His imposing physical stature matched his larger-than-life personality, jovial demeanor, and Irish wit. Whenever you met up with Sean you instantly knew he was genuinely glad to see you. Sean was beloved by fellow officers, friends, and foes alike. Violators had a healthy respect for Officer Dewey as he earned a reputation for being firm, but fair. 

Sean was definitely a “people person.” He truly loved everyone, including the public, and by and large, they loved him back. First and foremost, Sean’s love of people began with his family. Along with his beloved wife Susann, they raised their two sons, Danny and Brian, right here in Athens and Catskill. Both Danny and Brian followed in their father’s (rather large) footsteps, each serving with distinction in the US Marine Corps. Sean loved protecting his country, and the environment. He loved to hunt and fish, and had a distinct passion for his chosen career.  

ECO Dewey was not just an extremely dedicated officer and member of a wonderful family; he was my friend. I worked with Sean from 2004 until my retirement in 2015. When he was a new officer in Delaware County, I broke him into the ways we worked the most heinous of wildlife criminals, deer jackers; those who shoot deer at night with a light. I couldn’t have been more pleased with the result. ECO Dewey became one of Region 4’s best when it came to apprehending deer jackers in both Delaware and Greene Counties. Sean, along with his fellow ECOs, led the way and were key to the success of the Region 4 Deer Jacking Saturation Initiative, and Operations “Jack Hammer,” and “Dark Night.”

Sean and I became friends long ago, taking our kids duck hunting, on youth turkey hunts, ADK kayak/fishing trips, and up to DEC’s Camp Colby in Saranac Lake. Our mutual friend and retired Division Director, Tim Duffy and I made many trips to the “Dewey Duck Camp” in Lewis County, hunting with great friends like TJ and Sean’s brother’s Brian and Robert. Tim and I made a couple of forays visiting Sean in Ticonderoga, fishing for trout on the legendary streams and ponds of the Adirondacks. 

I spoke to Sean just a week before his passing as we planned a few fall hunting and fishing trips that sadly will not come to pass. I have been trying to get Sean to retire for some time but he always had the same reply; he was still having too much fun on the job. His optimism and enthusiasm for serving the public, and protecting our natural resources had not diminished one iota since the day we met when he was a rookie. We served for many years on the Division Honor Guard, attended the National Police Memorial in Washington DC, and honored fallen officers at countless law enforcement funerals. A US Marine and Army National Guard veteran, he now will be on the receiving end of uniformed law enforcement and military honor guards commemorating his dedicated law enforcement and military service.

Over the years, Sean served the Division with deep dedication and integrity in numerous roles;  Division Honor Guard, Academy Drill Instructor, member of the Incident Support Team and the Swift Water Response/Jet Boat Team. 

I can now see why Sean was honored with the “Cahill Award,” naming Sean as “Outstanding Recruit” in his academy. Sean earned the accolade for his constant support and mentoring of fellow recruits, assisting at every turn as they struggled to make it to graduation. Now that we reflect on who ECO Sean Dewey really was, earning this honor seems to have foreshadowed the way he would conduct his career.

Upon his passing, NYS DEC Division of Law Enforcement Director, Karen Przyklek remarked, “I will always remember Sean as the drum major for our Pipe & Drum band—a tall, commanding presence under a striking hat, leading with staff in hand. That image will forever symbolize his leadership, spirit, and pride in service.”

I couldn’t agree more. Director Przyklek went on to note how Sean Dewey simply loved being an ECO. It hadn’t dawned on me until his passing, but now I’m certain Sean was the most well-liked member of the Division. That genuine “glad to see you” greeting wasn’t just reserved for family and close friends. His joy and optimism remained contagious. 

Sean was a bit of a throwback in that he viewed his career as an ECO as a way of life, not just a way of earning a living. He loved it so much, he couldn’t bring himself to retire. But more than that, Sean loved his family, his friends, his coworkers, and yes, the public he so honorably served. 

There’s now a big void where Sean once stood. He will be sorely missed.

So, say a prayer for Sean and his family as we bid farewell to NYS Environmental Conservation Officer Sean F. Dewey; end of tour, July 25th 2025. 

 

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Mountain Eagle Launching “From Plate to Pen”

By Pat Larsen

Without question our community is growing at a rapid pace. Look around and you’ll see new restaurants, bars,

outdoor gathering and entertainment venues, Air B&B’s, specialty Food Trucks and Farmers Markets everywhere.

The variety of cuisines being offered is unlike any other time in Greene County. 

Because of the work that I have done serving our Seniors and Baby Boomers, I’m often asked where to eat, what entertainment options are available for a Saturday night,where to host a birthday party and most often where breakfast and brunch are offered. 

Most of our visitors are ages 55+from all over our Tri-State areas and beyond. 

They are not the crowd that are utilizing INSTAGRAM or other social media sites to find information. THEY are still picking up local newspapers to find events accessible for the weekend to enjoy here in the areas that they are visiting . It's more important than ever to consider when and where to advertise your location and what you have to offer.

For that reason, Mountain Eagle Publications, which is printed weekly,  is offering an opportunity to have your venue reviewed and featured in their new entertainment pages that will be highlighting the area you are located in.

At present their local distribution numbers are 3,650  papers in 150 stores locally.

My role will be to offer opportunities to be highlighted in a special review section called from “Plate to Pen” each week.  I’ll be scheduling and visiting venues over the next few weeks as the 2025 season just begins to reach its peak. 

Please contact me at , 518-275-8686 to schedule a time to chat and visit. Perhaps a dining experience can be part of this review meeting showcasing your cuisine as well. I’d like to also explore some of the best options available to fit your advertising needs to be part of this growing opportunity.

 In return we’d like to offer you a framed copy of the review to display at your venue. 

This is a unique opportunity that we feel confident you will want to be a part of.

About Pat Larsen… she has been a syndicated columnist featured weekly in Greene, Schoharie, Albany, and Northern Ulster Counties newspapers for over 15 years, reaching a wide audience of Baby Boomers and Seniors through  her popular programs and columns. 

Pat was named one of the TOP FIVE CHANGE MAKERS In Greene County, NY  in 2024.

She is the  Director of the program, AGING with GRACE,  inviting professionals to her fitness program to educate  seniors in ways to grow wiser as they age.

Please contact Pat at 518-275-8686 

 

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Out Lexington Way

Just one of the many classic cars at the 15th Annual Thunder in the Mountains Car Show hosted by the West Kill/Lexington Community Improvement Association in Lexington on July 26. Photo by Mary Lou Stapleton of the Catskill Mountain Classic Car Club

By Christine Dwon

What a beautiful day for the 15th Annual Thunder in the Mountains Car Show on July 26 at the Lexington Municipal Building.  The event was hosted by the West Kill/Lexington Community Improvement Association with the proceeds going to the organization.  The car show was once again a big hit with 59 fantastic vehicles, the delicious food, trophies and the much anticipated gift basket raffle.  Thanks to all for your support, hard work and dedication to making this event such a success.

Saturday, Aug. 2 is the next Lexington Farmers Market from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. under the pavilion at the Lexington Municipal Building, 3542 Route 42, Lexington.

Happy birthday to Debbie Buscarello on Monday, Aug. 4.

Aug. 4 is Kenney Bloodgood’s birthday.

Happy birthday to Kathy Nelson on Tuesday, Aug. 5.

Janice Barcone’s birthday is also Aug. 5.

Aug. 5 is Beth Soule Vaughn's birthday,

Happy anniversary to Patty and Schyler Minew on Wednesday, Aug. 6.

Best wishes to all. 

Tuesday, Aug. 5 from 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., there will be a Benefit Pancake Dinner hosted by the East Jewett UMC to benefit the Capital City Rescue Mission in Albany.  This is a free will offering dinner.  Parking located across the street in a field from 1415 Route 23C, East Jewett.  Follow the ice cream cone signs.  Enjoy a short excursion to the church aboard the Kaaterskill Trolley.  Limited handicap parking at the church.  All donations will be given to the Capital City Rescue Mission.  If you are unable to attend and would like to contribute, please send your donation to East Jewett UMC, POB 53, East Jewett, NY 12424. The CCRM provides food, clothing, medical service, housing and more for homeless people, provides recovery help for many, serves hundreds of meals each day all accomplished only by generous donations. 

The Lexington/West Kill UMC Administrative Council will meet Wednesday, Aug. 6 at 4:30 p.m. in the Lexington church hall.

The Town of Ashland Ladies Auxiliary is looking for vendors for their Vendor and Craft Fair, Aug. 10 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Vendors set up at 8 a.m. at the Town of Ashland Fire Department, 12094 NY 23, Ashland.  Vendor space fee:  Inside—10x10 is $50 and 8x8 is $40; Outside—10x10 is $40.  The Ashland Ladies Auxiliary will also be selling food from their kitchen during the fair.  For info on how to reserve a spot and the contract information, email Ashlandaux@gmail.com or call 518-734-3636 and ask for Heather.  Check out the Ashland Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary on Facebook.

The Hensonville Hose Company is hosting a car show the same day as the Ashland Ladies Auxiliary Vendor and Craft Fair on Aug. 10 at the Ashland Town Park located a quarter of a mile from the Ashland Firehouse.

Fellowship Lunch will be Tuesday, Aug. 12 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Kaaterskill UMC, 5942 Main Street, Tannersville.  The Fellowship Lunch is held every second and fourth Tuesdays of the month.  All are invited to come for a delicious free meal.

Town of Lexington Fire/Rescue Company Ladies Auxiliary will meet on Tuesday, Aug. 12 at 7:30 p.m. in the Firemen’s Room.

There will be a Roast Beef and Peach Shortcake Dinner on Tuesday, Aug. 19 hosted by the Kaaterskill UMC from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., takeouts only at the Tannersville Rescue Squad Building.

Free Rabies Vaccine Clinic will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 13 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Angelo Canna Town Park, Joseph D. Spencer Lane, Cairo.  Drive-up only clinic for Greene County residents.  Donations will be accepted.  Suggested donation $5 per animal.  Please be prepared with proper leashes, carriers and muzzles (if necessary) for your animals to keep them and others safe.  Please bring proof of prior rabies vaccination – certificate, not tag – to receive three-year certificate.  If no record is presented, your pet will be given a one-year certificate.  Preregistration is required.  Call Greene County Public Health at 518-719-3600 option 1.

The Greene Room Players Songbirds will have a free concert celebrating midsummer on the Mountain Top on Friday, Aug. 15, 7 p.m., at the Mountain Top Library in Tannersville.

Now through Saturday Oct. 18, the Mountain Top Library will be collecting pet food and pet supplies.  Wish list included:  leashes, harnesses, collars, gentle leaders, pee pads, dog and cat beds, blankets and towels, treats and Dream Bones, dog bones, squeak toys and stuffed animals (no brittle or plastic parts), tennis balls, Nyla Bones, Kongs, Chew Sticks, pet food wet or dry, pill pockets, flea and tick medicine, food bins, bleach, scrub brushes, paper towels, laundry detergent, baby wipes, large contractor bags, fur brushes, gift cards from Walmart, PetSmart, Petco, Tractor Supply, Lowes, Amazon and gas cards.

VFW Post 1545, 5565 NY 23, Windham, is hosting Bingo Nights on the first and third Thursdays of each month.  Arrive at 6 p.m., games start at 6:30 p.m.  Food and beverages are available for purchase from the Windham Community Center.

You must RSVP by Aug. 22 if you want to attend the Greene County Senior Citizens Day, “A Day at the Races,” sponsored by Greene County Department of Human Services on Friday, Sept. 12 from 12 noon to 3 p.m. at the Historic Warehouse, Historic Catskill Point, Main Street, Catskill.  There will be lunch, vendors, music and door prizes.  If you are without transportation and would like to attend, state such when reserving.  Call 518-719-3555.

The Greene County Senior Nutrition Program menu for the week of Aug. 4 – Aug. 8 is as follows:  Monday—Macaroni and cheese, three bean salad, stewed tomatoes, fruit cocktail; Tuesday—Chicken Divan, Tuscan vegetable mix, white rice, tropical fruit; Wednesday—Lemon pepper fish, Sonoma vegetables, mashed potatoes, chocolate mousse; Thursday—Meatloaf with gravy, baked potato, peas and carrots, fresh fruit; Friday—Chicken Caesar salad, Mexicali salad, potato salad, watermelon.  All persons 60 and older and spouses are invited to attend.  Meals served at noon, suggested $4 donation for each meal.  Congregate reservations are required by noon at least a day in advance.  If you reserve a meal and are unable to attend, please call as soon as you can to cancel.  Allergen information is available for prepared food items.  The number to call for the Senior Service Center at the Jewett Municipal Building, 3547 County Route 23C, Jewett is 518-263-4392.

Thank you to all law enforcement, firefighters, EMS, dispatchers, volunteers, healthcare providers, veterans, actively serving military, farmers, truck drivers and so many more.

Prayers for all who are dealing with loss, illnesses, healing, difficulties, our country, our military and their families, the world.

Until next week take care, be thankful, be respectful, be safe and please be kind to one another.  Your act of kindness may change someone’s life.

 

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Sgt. James F. Carty, DSC VFW Post 1545

As we head into August, we’ve officially entered that time of year when we all start saying, “It’s just too hot!” 

After a stretch of 90-plus-degree days, it’s definitely time to embrace summer—whether that means hitting the golf course, jumping in the pool, firing up the BBQ or just soaking in the sunshine.

One fun way to enjoy a summer evening is by joining us for Bingo Night at the VFW Post on Thursday, August 7, at 6 p.m. It’s a great way to beat the heat, relax and connect with the community.

This week, I’d like to share some important updates that could benefit many veterans—especially those who aren’t members of veteran’s organizations like the VFW and may not be aware of everything available to them.

Legislative Win for Transitioning Veterans: We're proud to report that one of the VFW’s top legislative priorities, the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) Promotion Act – H.R. 1845, has been included in Section 551 of the House draft of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026.

This would ensure that all transitioning service members have access to VA-accredited representatives—including those from counties, states and Veterans Service Organizations like the VFW. We urge Congress to keep this vital provision in the final version of the NDAA.

2025 VA Healthcare Summit Highlights: VFW staff attended the VA 2025 Healthcare Summit in Washington, D.C., where important updates were shared regarding the future of veteran care.

Key focuses included: Improving mental health services, Expanding telehealth access, using digital tools and AI to better serve veterans, especially in rural or underserved areas, and reducing wait times and streamlining the claims process

VFW National Legislative Associate Director Meggan Coleman said it best:

“We were thrilled to learn about innovative approaches to address the unique challenges VA faces in delivering timely, high-quality health care across the nation.”

Temporary Expanded Burial Benefit:  In line with the Dole Act, the VA has announced a temporary expansion of burial benefits for certain veterans. Those discharged from VA medical or nursing care to VA-provided home hospice, who pass away between July 1, 2025, and October 1, 2026, may now qualify for a full burial allowance.

This closes a long-standing gap that left many families without adequate support. It also allows veterans to spend their final days at home, surrounded by loved ones, without added financial stress.

On a personal note, my father-in-law was on hospice before he passed. Being home with family and friends brought him great comfort—and I know many families will benefit from this compassionate change. 

If you or someone you know could use help navigating any of these benefits, please don’t hesitate to reach out. That’s what the VFW is here for.

Stay cool, enjoy the rest of your summer—and we hope to see you at Bingo!

This week I would like to honor a Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient. His name is David Charles Dolby, nicknamed “Mad Dog”. Born May 14, 1946.

Dolby joined the Army from Philadelphia at age 18, and by May 21, 1966, was serving in the Republic of Vietnam as a specialist four with Company B, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile).

On that day, his platoon came under heavy fire which killed six soldiers and wounded a number of others, including the platoon leader. Throughout the ensuing four-hour battle, Dolby led his platoon in its defense, organized the extraction of the wounded and directed artillery fire despite close-range attacks from enemy snipers and automatic weapons. 

He single-handedly attacked the hostile positions and silenced three machine guns, allowing a friendly force to execute a flank attack.

Dolby was subsequently promoted to sergeant and awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the battle.[2] The medal was formally presented to him by President Lyndon B. Johnson on September 28, 1967. 

In addition to the 1965–66 tour in which he earned the Medal of Honor, Dolby did four more tours in Vietnam. In 1967 he served there with the 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division, in 1969 with C Company (Ranger), 75th Infantry (Airborne), First Field Force Vietnam, in 1970 as an Adviser to the Vietnamese Rangers, and in 1971 as an Adviser to the Royal Cambodian Army.[5]

He left the Army that same year with the rank of staff sergeant. Dolby died at age 64 on the morning of August 6, 2010, while visiting Spirit Lake, Idaho, for a veterans' gathering. Dolby died in his sleep and is buried in Arlington National Cemetery. Keep all who served our country in your prayers along with those still serving. God Bless America. 

Marc Farmilette, PDC – VFW Post 1545 Commander

 

David C. Dolby

 

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