North Country Leader

Senator Mark Walczyk, who serves as a Captain in the US Army Reserve, has returned home after being deployed to the Middle East for 290 days. His deployment began in late January 2024, where he was stationed primarily in Kuwait. During his time overseas, Captain Walczyk held the position of construction Portfolio Manager and Facilities Contract Construction Management Engineer for Task Force Castle. He managed construction projects across several countries.

Captain Walczyk was part of the 484th Forward Engineer Support Team - Advance (FEST-A), engaging in engineering reconnaissance missions in Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Syria, and Iraq. While deployed, he participated in the Camp Buehring Marathon and earned various recognitions including the Norwegian Footmarch badge and Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal. He also completed classes to become a W8 Facilities Engineer.

His service earned him multiple awards: the Overseas Service Ribbon, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with "M" Device, Overseas Service Bar, Army Achievement Medal, and Meritorious Service Medal. The team's deployment was extended beyond nine months to ensure a smooth transition between units.

Upon completing demobilization at Ft. Bliss in Texas, Senator Walczyk returned to Watertown to reunite with his family. "I've missed my family and I'm spending as much time as possible at home," said Walczyk. He expressed gratitude towards colleagues who supported his duties while away: Assemblymembers Will Barclay, Ken Blankenbush, Scott Gray, Mary Beth Walsh, Bob Smullen, Matt Simpson, Brian Miller; and his office staff.

"As a Reservist," he noted proudly about serving abroad but acknowledged that he's glad to be back home. With legislative sessions approaching soon he added: "I'm excited to get back...fighting for Upstate New York communities."