Chenango County native, veteran of Ground Zero, honored after 9/11 related death

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On Sunday, Sept. 18, New York State Police honored the commitment, dedication and life of Sgt. Floyd “Brent” Chomyszak, who was a Southern Tier native of Norwich, NY. Chomyszak, 61, of Punta Gorda, Fla., died Tuesday, August 23, 2022, from 9/11-related cancer.

He served at “Ground Zero” for six months immediately following the 9/11 attack on the World Trade Center buildings in New York City. His daily exposure to toxins ultimately cost Brent his life, according to a news release from New York State Police.

Chomyszak attended Norwich High School where he was on the rifle team and became a master with long guns and pistols, according to his obituary. He earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from the State University College at Oswego.

He graduated from the New York State Police Academy in 1987. He was selected for several special assignments, including the NY Governor’s Protective Services Detail and Marine Patrol. In 2004, he was promoted to sergeant and station commander at State Police Morrisville.

He was also an Accredited Marine Surveyor, U.S. Coast Guard Licensed Master, an NRA firearms instructor, a certified scuba diver, and a black belt in Okinawan Karate.