Dear Neighbor,
On Veterans Day, we honor and remember the important role our Armed Forces have played in guaranteeing our freedoms through their service to our nation, state and local communities. I am always humbled by the brave veterans who have selflessly served our country in order to protect the freedoms that we as a nation enjoy today. Just as our veterans recognized their duty to serve our country, we too must recognize our duty as Americans to honor their profound sacrifices.
There is no greater satisfaction in my job as your Senator than honoring a man or woman who has served in the military. This past June, I had the privilege of nominating Nick Verzella of East Rochester for induction into the New York State Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame [3] in a special ceremony at the State Capitol. The Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame was created to stress the importance of what these veterans have done not only in times of war, but also the significant positive impact they have had on our local communities.
I had the distinct honor of previously nominating the late Ralph L. Chinelly of East Rochester (2005), General Norbert J. Rappl of Irondequoit (2007) and Colonel John J. Perrone of Penfield (2010) as members of the Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame. Their meritorious service to our nation deserves this special recognition as an expression of our gratitude and admiration.
Also, I was pleased to support a new law [4] this past session that sets limits on the protesting of funerals for those who have given their life in battle. This new law sends an important message to families of military individuals that we are committed to protecting the dignity, respect and honor that their loved one deserves.
As your representative, I will continue working on behalf of all of our veterans and their families as if every day was Veterans Day. As we honor all of the Veterans of the United States military this Friday, I ask that you keep those individuals and their families in your thoughts and prayers. Just as our veterans have made serving a central part of their lives, we should make thanking those who have served our nation a central part of our lives.
Sincerely,
Jim
Please take a moment to watch my Salute to Veterans video [5]
