A man who was a hero to his country and his community was laid to rest in Alabama this afternoon.
Thomas Alan Cortright, 56, of Basom, died Sunday at his residence after a lengthy illness.
Cortright received the the Distinguished Flying Cross while serving in Vietnam in 1972-73. He was also Fire Police captain for the Town of Alabama Volunteer Fire Department and worked as grounds keeper for the State Police barracks in Batavia.
"He may have been the most decorated veteran in Genesee County," said Ron Konieczny, commander of Batavia's American Legion post.
At least 100 people attended his burial shortly after noon in the Town of Alabama cemetery, including numerous members of Alabama Fire and volunteer firefighters from throughout the county. Friends, family and fellow veterans also attended.
Cortright was honored with a 21-gun salute and the playing of taps while his mother, Eleanor Sullivan Cortright, and his wife, Mary Ann Brodfuerer Cortright, sat beside his flag-draped casket.
For the full obituary, and a complete list of all his military honors, click here.
It was my honor and privilege
It was my honor and privilege to know this great man. We served together for several years in the Alabama Volunteer Fire Dept. I can only remember three times Tom did not work Bingo. As members we are only required to work once a month, but not Tom, he worked every week. He was always quick to teach new members (or even some of us seasoned ones) what he could. He worked many functions, committees and was also on our Board of Directors and Fire Police. Tom truly was the meaning of "Dedicated Volunteer".
He will truly be missed by all!!