Press release
A portion of Route 19 in LeRoy would be designated in honor of the fallen hero
ALBANY, N.Y. — Senator George Borrello today announced the New York State Senate has passed legislation to designate a portion of Route 19 in Le Roy as the “Lt. Gary A. Scott Memorial Highway,” honoring the life, heroism and sacrifice of the local Vietnam War Army officer who gave his life in service to his country. (photo- courtesy veterans.syracuse.edu)
Lt. Gary A. Scott, a LeRoy native, graduated from LeRoy High School in 1963, where he was recognized for his leadership, academic achievement and character, qualities that would later define his military service. He went on to attend Syracuse University through the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC).
After graduating at the top of his ROTC class, Scott had the opportunity to choose from a range of military assignments. Instead, the newly commissioned Army officer volunteered for one of the most challenging and dangerous roles possible, serving as a platoon leader in the 101st Airborne during the height of the Vietnam War. He wanted to lead from the front because he believed African Americans were underrepresented in military leadership positions. He ultimately served with Company A, 1st Battalion, 101st Airborne Division, the famed “Screaming Eagles.”
On March 29, 1968, Lt. Gary A. Scott was killed during an ambush in Thua Thien while attempting to rescue members of his platoon pinned down by enemy fire. Lt. Scott ultimately gave his life shielding a member of his unit with his own body.
“Lt. Gary Scott embodied courage, leadership and selfless service,” said Senator Borrello. “Although he had every opportunity to avoid combat, he chose to serve on the front lines because he believed in leading by example and breaking barriers for others. His actions in Vietnam reflected extraordinary heroism and sacrifice, and this designation will ensure future generations remember his legacy and the price paid by so many Americans who served during the Vietnam War.”
Senator Borrello also recognized the strong community effort behind the legislation, including support from local residents, veterans and Lt. Scott’s family and friends. A petition supporting the designation gathered signatures during the Oatka Festival, while letters of support were submitted from across the community, including from Bruce Braitain, the medic whose life Lt. Scott saved during the ambush.
Lt. Scott’s legacy has continued long after his death. In 1968, Syracuse University classmates established a scholarship in his name at LeRoy Central School, which continues to this day. His letters from Vietnam were also featured in the acclaimed book Dear America: Letters Home From Vietnam, which later became an award-winning documentary.
Companion legislation is sponsored by Assemblyman Stephen Hawley in the New York State Assembly, where it currently awaits consideration.