Senate Resolution No. 3318

BY: Senator HELMING

COMMENDING Draven Starr-Howell posthumously upon
the occasion of his designation as recipient of a
Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon an
individual by the New York State Senate

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend the caring concern and heroic acts of individuals who take
prompt and appropriate action in emergency situations, nobly risking
their own lives in an effort to preserve the life of another; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commend Draven Starr-Howell posthumously upon the occasion of his
designation as recipient of a Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed
upon an individual by the New York State Senate; and

WHEREAS, The New York State Senate Liberty Medal was established by
Resolution and is awarded to individuals who have merited special
commendation for exceptional, heroic, or humanitarian acts on behalf of
their fellow New Yorkers; and

WHEREAS, On Thursday, July 2, 2020, Draven Starr-Howell of Palmyra,
New York, was enjoying a day at the beach when he noticed three women
who were in distress off the Westside of the Sodus Point Pier; and

WHEREAS, Responding without hesitation, Draven Starr-Howell jumped
into the rough waters and was pulled under by the strong waves and
undercurrent after the three women were pulled out of the water; and

WHEREAS, Draven Starr-Howell was pulled from the water and taken to
Newark-Wayne Community Hospital before being flown to Rochester General
Hospital in serious condition; unfortunately, this brave young man
succumbed to his injuries on Friday, July 3, 2020, making the ultimate
sacrifice at just 20 years old; and

WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the impressive dedication shown by an
individual for the benefit of others which Draven Starr-Howell displayed
throughout his life; and

WHEREAS, Draven Starr-Howell in his spontaneous and heroic act, has
so aptly demonstrated his character and compassion for the welfare of
others; personifying, by virtue of his action, the collective concern of
ordinary citizens across the community of New York State who voluntarily
respond without thought of danger or reward when loved ones are in need
of help; and

WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit and imbued with a sense of
compassion, Draven Starr-Howell leaves behind a legacy which will long
endure the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all
he served and befriended; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend Draven Starr-Howell posthumously upon the occasion of his

designation as recipient of a Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed
upon an individual by the New York State Senate; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Draven Starr-Howell.