The Hall of Fame was established to honor the extraordinary achievements of New York’s veterans who have distinguished themselves in service to the nation.
“It is a great honor to be inducted into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame,” Park said. “To be recognized alongside so many brave men and women who served our nation is a great privilege and one that I regard with total gratitude. I am humbled to receive this award, and accept with heartfelt appreciation and respect for my fellow honorees.”
Park graduated from State University of New York at Herkimer in 2009 with an associate’s degree in criminal justice, a news release from Liu’s office said, which laid the foundation for his life of service.
Driven by a commitment to serve his country, Park enlisted in the U.S. Army as an infantryman in early 2010.
He completed rigorous one station unit training and Airborne School at Fort Benning, GA, in 2011, earning his Parachutist Badge where he demonstrated exceptional physical and tactical proficiency.
Park was assigned to the renowned 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, serving as a rifleman in the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1-504 Parachute Infantry Regiment, Charlie Company, 3rd Platoon, known as the “Red Devils.” There, he completed advanced combat training, including Joint Readiness Training and Mountain Phase Training, preparing for deployment in high-risk environments.
In March 2012, Park deployed to Afghanistan. He arrived at Bagram Airfield before being stationed at Combat Outpost Moqur in Ghazni Province.
During his deployment, he was promoted to specialist and served in multiple critical combat roles, including rifleman, grenadier, SAW gunner and machine gunner.
Park participated in more than 35 mobile convoys and 12 firefights. The news release said he consistently demonstrated bravery, resilience and adaptability under intense combat conditions.
While deployed, Park survived two improvised explosive device attacks. During one of the incidents, he sustained a traumatic brain injury and received treatment at Combat Outpost Moqur before courageously returning to duty.
Following his deployment, Park returned to Fort Bragg, where he continued receiving medical treatment while completing the remainder of his military service.
In early 2015, Park was honorably discharged and transitioned to the Individual Ready Reserve, concluding his period of active duty service.
Park’s service has been recognized through numerous military honors and decorations, including the Purple Heart, the Army Commendation Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the NATO Medal, the Combat Infantryman Badge and the Parachutist Badge.
“Justin’s extraordinary service to our country and community exemplifies all that it means to serve with courage, honor and selflessness,” Liu said. “He carried out multiple combat missions with discipline and courage, all while remaining steadfast in his dedication to his fellow soldiers. He is a true hero, and it is my privilege to recognize Specialist Park’s bravery and dedication by inducting him into the New York State Senate’s Hall of Fame.”