BUFFALO, N.Y. -- Ralph Wilson Jr. will now be remembered forever in Buffalo for more than just his tenure as the owner of the Buffalo Bills.
Wilson served as a Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy during World War II and was the commanding officer of the minesweeper USS Picket.
Officials at the Buffalo & Erie County Naval and Military Park announced that Friday, May 12 will be known as Lieutenant Commander Ralph C. Wilson Day.
"Every annual Western New York Armed Forces Week thereafter will now be known as Lieutenant Commander Ralph C. Wilson Day at the Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park. On that day, admission will be free for all visitors to honor his legacy," said Capt. Brian Roche, Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park executive director.
"I am so excited to hear about tomorrow, Ralph Wilson Day here, and what a great tribute to a great man," said Mary Wilson, LCDR Ralph Wilson Jr.'s widow.
Mary Wilson also donated his Navy uniform, service medals and flag to remain on display at the park.