The Bronx Chronicle Veteran of the Week

John Patrick Tipping

Inductee was nominated by Former Senator Michael A. L. Balboni

John Patrick Tipping is deserving of a place among New York State’s most outstanding veterans for his more than three decades of staunch advocacy on behalf of veterans and their families.

Mr. Tipping served in the U.S. Naval Reserve from 1948 to 1951, and later during the Korean War as part of the U.S. Army’s famed “Hell on Wheels” 57th tank battalion, 2nd Armored Division.

Since being honorably discharged in 1953, he dedicated himself to improving the lives of veterans through leadership positions in the American Legion. A member of the Elmont Post #1033 since 1962, he served as the Nassau County Commander of the American Legion from 1972-73, the New York State Commander from 1977-78, and National Vice Commander from 1988- 89.

As a former State Legislative Chairman for the New York State Legion, he traveled to Albany on a weekly basis to lobby on behalf of veterans. He was instrumental in creating the law that exempts veterans organizations from state taxation and was invited by Governor Malcolm Wilson to join him at the bill signing ceremony. He also traveled to Washington, D.C. in support of veterans’ initiatives, where he met with Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush.

Mr. Tipping is a recipient of the Good Conduct Medal, Army of Occupation Medal, and National Defense Medal.