The Honorable Norman A. Mordue is an alumnus of Syracuse University and also a military veteran. You should know his story because it’s a Syracuse University story—one that speaks to our past, our present, and our future.
Norman A. Mordue was born in Elmira, NY in 1942. As a Syracuse University Economics student, he was part of the ROTC program and commissioned as a Second Lieutenant upon graduation. After completing Basic Training, the new First Lieutenant heroically led his platoon during the Vietnam War. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross after his selfless efforts to relieve another platoon that had come under heavy artillery fire. Armed with a machine gun, First Lieutenant Mordue rescued two of his men who had been injured from enemy fire. Though he was severely injured after the incident, he refused to accept medical help until his men could withdraw and they could order artillery strikes on enemy positions.
His commitment to leadership and courage in the face of adversity helped advance the American offensive and eventually defeat the enemy. Norman was also awarded the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star, retiring from the military as a Captain in the U.S. Army.
Following his distinguished military service, Norman returned to Syracuse University in 1971 to earn a degree in law. After graduating with his J.D., he served as the district attorney for Onondaga County. He eventually worked his way up to the bench, serving as the State Supreme Court justice in the county from 1986 until 1998.
Nominated by President Bill Clinton and confirmed in only sixteen days, Norman was appointed to the Northern District of New York, serving from the chief judge of the court until 2011 when he became the Senior Judge on the bench. His distinguished career as a judge has garnered him great respect in his local community. Judge Mordue and his wife, Christina, have three children: Daniel, Jackie, and Michael.
Norman A. Mordue is an alumnus of Syracuse University, and a veteran of the U.S. military. You should know his story.