John Shott is a World War II Veteran, former POW

Shott was previously honored in Albany as part of Veterans Hall of Fame

State Senator Christopher J. Ryan (SD-50) celebrated the 104th birthday of John Shott, WWII Veteran and long-time North Syracuse resident. Senator Ryan previously honored Shott as his 2026 New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame Nominee. 

Shott served as a radioman and gunner for the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. On May 17, 1945, Shott’s aircraft was shot down near present-day Taipei by Japanese anti-aircraft fire. After surviving for three days in the jungle, he was captured and transported to a prisoner of war camp in the Philippines, where he endured four months of brutal conditions, including beatings, solitary confinement, and malnutrition. Following Japan’s surrender in August 1945, Shott was liberated and transported back to the United States for medical treatment before being honorably discharged from the Army. After the war, he fulfilled a promise to visit the wife of his fallen comrade, William J. Kozak. Shott later married Helen Kozak, and the couple shared a life together until her passing in 2000.

“It has been a privilege to get to know John during my time as a State Senator,” said Senator Ryan. “His story is one of extraordinary courage, resilience, and selflessness. From surviving the horrors of war as a prisoner of war to returning home and building a life rooted in family and service, John represents the very best of the Greatest Generation. I am proud to celebrate his 104th birthday and I hope his story continues to inspire generations to come.”

Shott’s 104th birthday celebration took place at the Edward-Wevers VFW Post 7290. Shott’s friends and family, members of the VFW, Village of North Syracuse Mayor John Bolton, and members of the North Syracuse Board of Trustees were also in attendance. Shott will turn 104 on July 4, 2026.