Mark Woods Jr., a dedicated public servant and veteran, will be posthumously inducted into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame in recognition of his lifelong commitment to his country, community, and fellow veterans. Woods, a beloved Clarkstown Councilman, will be honored during a ceremony at the New York State Capitol in Albany on May 27, 2025. His wife, Jeanne Woods, will accept the award on his behalf.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, Woods was deeply influenced by his uncle, a Vietnam War veteran, which sparked his decision to serve. He attended The Citadel, a renowned military college, and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Infantry. His military career took him to Berlin at the end of the Cold War and to Bosnia as part of a United Nations peacekeeping mission.
After leaving active duty, Woods transitioned to a career as a corrections officer and border agent before joining the NYPD. He served in a variety of roles, including foot patrol, Vice Squad, and the elite Joint Terrorism Task Force. After the September 11 attacks, Woods was recalled to active duty, where he was deployed to Iraq as part of the Civil Affairs unit, working to rebuild civil society in conflict zones.
Upon returning to the NYPD after his second honorable discharge, Woods became an advocate for veterans, dedicating his life to assisting those in need. He served as Deputy Director of the Rockland County Veterans Service Agency and later as Director of the Joseph P. Dwyer Veterans Peer Support Program at BRIDGES, where he provided critical support to veterans facing challenges.
Woods’ legacy is one of selfless service, with his contributions extending far beyond his military career. His work with veterans, his time as a town councilman, and his unwavering commitment to his community have left a lasting impact on Rockland County.
“Mark Woods Jr. exemplified the spirit of selfless service,” said a statement from Senator Bill Weber. “His dedication to his country, his community, and especially to his fellow veterans, was unparalleled. This induction into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is a fitting tribute to a man whose compassion, leadership, and service will always be remembered.”
Carlos Martinez, CEO and Executive Director of BRIDGES, reflected on Woods’ character, saying, “Mark Woods is the purest example of a serviceman dedicated to his country and his community. He was humble, passionate, and undeniably committed to making our community a better place.”
Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann also praised Woods’ legacy, stating, “Mark dedicated his life to protecting, serving, and uplifting others. His commitment to helping people, from his service in the U.S. Army to his work with local veterans, and his role as Town Councilman, is a legacy we are proud to honor.”
The New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame honors veterans who have made significant contributions not only in their military service but also in their communities. Mark Woods Jr. is a shining example of such a veteran, and his memory will continue to inspire future generations.