Major General Peter B. Porter to be honored

NIAGARA FALLS, NY (Oakwood Cemetery) - Major General Peter B. Porter is to be honored once again for his service to the country.  A bronze version of the Congressional Gold Medal will be presented to Oakwood Cemetery by Warren Baltes, the Historian for the Connecticut Street Armory in Buffalo.  Mr Baltes started doing research on the General simply because of the name.  The Connecticut Street Armory is located near Porter Avenue in Buffalo, there was also a Fort Porter located in the area, but it was torn down in the 1920's to make way for the construction of the Peace Bridge.  (Both the Avenue and the Fort were named after the General) In his research, Mr Baltes found that General Porter had been presented the Congressional Gold Medal.  Only 230 or so of the medals have been awarded by Congress, the first going to President George Washington.  

Click here for a complete list of recipients

When a Gold Medal is struck by the US Mint, bronze versions are created for family and dignitaries.  These versions have become collectors items.  Cemetery Administrator, Laurence G. Steele said, "Oakwood Cemetery is deeply honored that Warren would not only take the time to research one of our residents, but then purchase and donate a version of the medal to us."

The ceremony takes place just before the Stunters Tour on Saturday, July 14 and 9am.  Several area dignitaries have been invited to attend.