Assemblyman Jeff Gallahan (R,C-Manchester) is proud to announce that his bill, A.6584B, has passed in the New York State Legislature. This bill, which was sponsored in the Senate by Sen. Pam Helming (S.5769B), will rename a portion of State Route 21 from its intersection with State Route 96 to its intersection with Latting Road and Standpipe Road in the Town of Manchester in honor of fallen service member TSgt Kory Wade. 

TSgt Kory Wade was a native son of Manchester, who upon graduation from Red Jacket High School in 2008 felt a call to serve his nation and immediately enlisted in the Airforce. TSgt Wade served his nation honorably and was assigned to the 48th Rescue Squadron as a medical logistics airman. He tragically lost his life in service to our country on June 17, 2023, while conducting a training exercise.

“TSgt Kory Wade was a true American Patriot. A decorated airman, his service is truly inspirational. This dedication will continue to ensure his service to our nation will never be forgotten. I am honored to be a part of remembering his heroic life by introducing and passing this legislation,” said Assemblyman Jeff Gallahan.

TSgt Wade’s many awards and decorations include the Air and Space Commendation Medal, Air and Space Achievement Medal, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Air and Space Outstanding Unit Award, National Defense Service Medal ribbon, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and U.S. Air Force Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Military Education Graduate Ribbon.

Sen. Pam Helming said, “One of my greatest honors as a New York state senator is recognizing the courageous men and women who have served our nation with distinction in the United States Armed Forces. U.S. Air Force TSgt. Wade is one of these distinguished individuals. He served this country with courage and unwavering patriotism. Dedicating a stretch of Route 21 in his name is a small but lasting tribute to a life of service and sacrifice. This dedication will allow Kory’s legacy to live on in the hearts of all who travel this road.”

TSgt Wade enjoyed spending time outdoors, boating with the occasional poker run, riding motorcycles and skiing. TSgt Wade loved being around his family and spending time with his beloved dog Kaiser. He was tremendously humble about his service and held a strong compassion for children and animals.

“Kory had an amazing circle of friends and coworkers who came from all over the world to attend his service and many of them came to my home on the anniversary of his passing. My boy made me and his mom so proud,” said Mike Wade, TSgt Kory Wade’s father. 

Following his death, Gov. Kathy Hochul directed flags to half-staff on July 5 and July 6 of 2023 in honor of TSgt Kory Wade. This legislation serves as a small way to honor and respect TSgt Wade’s ultimate sacrifice for our nation and it now awaits the governor’s signature before becoming law.