Jefferson County, NY – Today, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-NY-21) issued the following statement:
“It is with deep sadness that our Fort Drum community learns of the passing of an exceptional patriot and military leader, Major General Jeffrey Bannister,” said Congresswoman Stefanik. “I am proud to have gotten to know General Bannister and his family during my first term in office. We worked closely together to successfully prevent devastating personnel cuts from taking place at Fort Drum, as well as on numerous other projects to strengthen this installation.
“When I visited him at Fort Drum, Major General Bannister was always an amiable and attentive host. It was clear he commanded the greatest respect from the men and women stationed on post, and I knew his greatest interest was their well-being.
“I remember running into General Bannister with his family at the Cream Cheese Festival in Lowville after he returned from a recent deployment. He was wearing his baseball cap and casually eating at a picnic table with his wife and they both gave me a warm hug. He was truly dedicated to our country and this community.
“My heart goes out to the family of Major General Bannister and his wife, Trese, during this difficult time.”
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