The Eastwick Press Newspaper

Eastern Rensselaer County's Community Newspaper

County Honors Irving Mason, Korean War Era Veteran

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The late Irving T. Mason, who served as a heavy machine mechanic with the United States Army during the Korean War, was recognized by Rensselaer County’s Honor-A-Deceased Veteran Committee and County officials on Monday, May 9, during services at the County Office Building.[private]
Born and raised in Petersburgh, Mason enlisted in the Army in June, 1952, at the age of 21.  Following his service he married Shirley Duval in 1954 and the couple raised a family that included, daughters, Kathy, Debbie, and son  Tracy.
Mason enjoyed a 25-year career as an operating engineer with Troy Sand and Gravel in addition to serving as log foreman for Rynard Gundrum. Mason also served the Town of Grafton as Assistant Road Superintendant, Road Superintendent, and Councilman.  He was a Lifetime Member of the Veterans of Foreign War Post 6340, volunteered 25 years with the Grafton Fire Company, and was an active member in the Petersburgh Rod and Gun Club.
“Like so many others who valiantly served our nation as a member of the Armed Forces, Irving Mason returned home and dedicated himself to his family and community,” said Rensselaer County Executive Kathleen M. Jimino.
“Irving Mason answered the call to duty, serving with the U.S. Army during a criticial period in the Cold War and during the Korean conflict. He loved his country and his community and was known as a great family man, neighbor and friend who is truly missed every day,” said Chair of the Legislature Stan Brownell.
“The service of veterans like Irv Mason during the Cold War and Korea helped protect our freedom and defend our nation from communism,” added Legislator Thomas Walsh Sr., chairman of the Legislature’s Veterans Committee.
In addition to Jimino, Brownell, and Walsh the ceremony honoring Korean War Era Army Veteran Irving Mason was attended by Congressman Paul Tonko, a representative of Congressman Chris Gibson, former Congressman Mike McNulty, a representative of Senator Kathleen Marchione, Assemblymen Steve McLaughlin and John McDonald, District Attorney Joel Abelove, and County Legislators Alex Shannon, Ken Herrington, Gary Pavlic, and Mark Fleming.[/private]