Dr. Stobnicke enlisted at age 17 and flew over 90 missions during WWII before returning home to practice medicine
SYRACUSE, NY - Senator John W. Mannion (D-Geddes) today announced WWII Airman and longtime Central New York physician Dr. Paul Stobnicke is his selection for the 2021 New York State Senate Veteran of the Year Award and his inductee into the New York State Senate Veterans' Hall of Fame.
Senator Mannion said, "From saving the world as a WWII combat pilot to saving lives as one of the finest family physicians in Central New York, 'Dr. Paul' has lived an exemplary life of service to his country and his community. He is a living ideal of the Greatest Generation and worthy of our praise, respect, and thanks. As one of his many patients, I have known and admired Dr. Stobnicke for decades. It is a privilege to present this award to such a good, decent, and deserving person."
Senator Mannion surprised Dr. Paul by making the announcement at a pre-scheduled ceremony and dinner where he was receiving the Veteran of the Month award at his residence, the Fayetteville Towne Center RetirementCommunity.
Dr. Paul Stobnicke will officially join this year's class of inductees during the 2021 Veterans Hall of Fame virtual program on Veterans Day, Thursday, November 11. The ceremony will be streamed on the Senate's website.
About 2021 NYS Veteran of the Year Dr. Paul Stobnicke:
Dr. Paul Stobnicke was assigned to the Air Corps' 13th Air Force, 70th Fighter Squadron. He flew over 90 missions and was promoted to Captain prior to the conclusion of World War II.
Stobnicke was 17 when he enlisted, and he was 21 when the war ended. He went on to become a family doctor for decades in Syracuse, including as the family doctor for Senator John Mannion and his family. Dr. Stobnicke also served as the Medical Director for the Syracuse City School District during the Post-War years.
Stobnicke, known by most as "Dr. Paul," was shaped by his experiences in the war, a time in which he met his wife, Sybil. Her nickname, "Sweet Sybil," was painted on the nose of his plane during WWII.
Following this surprise announcement, Dr. Paul Stobnicke will officially join this year's class of inductees during the 2021 Veterans Hall of Fame virtual program on Veterans Day, Thursday, November 11. The ceremony will be streamed on the Senate's website.
