LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Chief George Tortorelis upon the occa-
sion of his retirement from the Windham Police Department on April 30,
2009

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and honor
those distinguished officers and citizens who would devote themselves to
public service, demonstrating great courage and diligence in providing
for the care and welfare of the citizens of their communities and this
great Empire State; and
WHEREAS, Within every community of the State of New York there are
certain individuals who, by virtue of their commitment and dedication,
command the respect and admiration of their community for their exem-
plary contributions and service on behalf of others; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Chief George
Tortorelis upon the occasion of his retirement from the Windham Police
Department on Thursday, April 30, 2009; and
WHEREAS, Since he was a young man, George Tortorelis has had an enthu-
siasm and passion for law enforcement; while attending high school in
the Bronx, he worked as an intern for the Manhattan district attorney
and also volunteered with the New York City Auxiliary Police; and
WHEREAS, George Tortorelis moved to Windham, New York, and became a
full time member of the Windham Police Department in February 1977; and
WHEREAS, Displaying exemplary leadership skills, George Tortorelis was
promoted to sergeant in September of 1992 and was later appointed to
chief on March 13, 1995; and
WHEREAS, Throughout his distinguished career, Chief George Tortorelis
has continually demonstrated extreme competence, extraordinary intelli-
gence and diligent leadership in his unwavering service to the Windham
Police Department; and
WHEREAS, With him throughout have been his wife of 31 years, and his
three children, all of whom feel privileged to be a part of his life and
rejoice in his achievements; and
WHEREAS, As Chief George Tortorelis retires, his wisdom, guidance and
unparalleled professionalism will be greatly missed by the members of
the Windham Police Department but never forgotten; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those dedicated
public servants who unselfishly devote their lives to the preservation
of order and the protection of others are worthy and due full praise for
their commitment and noble endeavors; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Chief George Tortorelis upon the occasion of his retirement from
the Windham Police Department on April 30, 2009, and to wish him contin-
ued success in all of his future endeavors; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Chief George Tortorelis.