October 12, 2025
The above sign, in honor of WWII hero Wally Higgins, who was a member of the world famous Tuskegee Airmen, went up this past Saturday morning on Route 21 in Alfred Station. Higgin’s son Don and daughters Laurie and Sharon were present. Don Higgins, Robert and William Pulos were the event organizers. A statement from then-State Senator Cathy Young was read aloud by Sharon Stiller.
From Senator Young’s website in March, 2015: “Wallace C. Higgins, a decorated World War-II veteran and longtime resident of Allegany County, was inducted into the New York State Senate’s Veterans’ Hall of Fame. As part of the state Senate’s annual Veterans’ Hall of Fame Ceremony, Senator Catharine Young (R,C,I-Olean) nominated Mr. Higgins, known to many as “Wally,” to be recognized for his service to the nation. “Wally Higgins’ patriotic service and sacrifice for our country, and truly his entire life’s story is remarkable example of the selflessness demonstrated by so many in his generation. They gave so much at a time when battles raged all around the globe and our nation needed heroes. As an original Tuskegee Airman who served in the Pacific theater, Wally’s aviation knowledge and skills were vital to the movement of troops and materials,” said Senator Young. “Aside from his service, Wally is a loving father and dedicated family man, who deserves our deepest respect and praise. It was an honor to be able to recognize him and have his story memorialized in the state’s history.”
