Flushing resident Ryan Su was inducted into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame by State Senator John Liu earlier this week for his longtime service to both the country and the local community.
From 2012 to 2015, Su served in the United States Army as an infantryman, intelligence analyst and anti-armor specialist. During that time, he received several medals and distinctions, including the American Defense Service Medal in 2013 and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal in 2012.
But after a training accident, he was honorably discharged from the military which cut his service short almost a decade ago. Afterward, he went on to briefly serve in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under the Department of Homeland Security before returning home to Queens to be closer to family.
After leaving the military and subsequent work for the federal government, he shifted his focus to serving his community at home. Last year, his commitment to community service was recognized with the Presidential Volunteer Service Award.
“His hard work, leadership and devotion to serving his country are evident in his service to his community both in and out of uniform. For his commitment to putting the safety and well-being of his community first, we are proud to induct Ryan Su into the Veterans Hall of Fame,” said Liu, who represents Flushing.
Su recalled that in high school, Senator Liu was known to him as the first Asian American to win citywide elected office and on the state legislative level. He added that he feels tremendously honored to be inducted by the longtime senator.
Prior to his military service, Su was actively involved in the NYPD’s Auxiliary Volunteer program from 2004 to 2011. This period was instrumental in helping him recognize his passion for public service and community safety. He continues to volunteer his time to community affairs in law enforcement today.
“This award is not just for me, but all who have trusted and supported me – it is for the community. I will always cherish my time in the military, and I look forward to continuing to work with our community to build a stronger and safer society for future generations,” said Su, who remains committed to keeping the community safe, whether in uniform or without.
