LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION mourning the untimely death of Specialist Justin
D. Coleman and paying tribute to his courageous actions as a member of
the United States Army

WHEREAS, The courage and bravery of our military personnel since the
United States Armed Forces commenced Operation Enduring Freedom will
ensure our continued role as a Nation which embodies the ideals of
democracy, and as a defender of liberty for people throughout the world;
and
WHEREAS, Members of the Armed Services from the State of New York who
have served so valiantly and honorably during Operation Enduring Freedom
deserve a special salute from this Legislative Body; and
WHEREAS, It is with feelings of deepest regret that this Legislative
Body mourns the untimely death of Specialist Justin D. Coleman and
paying tribute to his courageous actions as a member of the United
States Army; and
WHEREAS, Assigned to Fort Drum in October 2007 after completing basic
training, Specialist Justin D. Coleman deployed to Afghanistan as an
infantryman with the 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade
Combat Team of the 10th Mountain Division in January; and
WHEREAS, The son of an Army veteran, Specialist Justin D. Coleman was
the recipient of the Purple Heart, the National Defense Service Medal,
the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service
Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the NATO Medal and the Combat
Infantryman's Badge; and
WHEREAS, Specialist Justin D. Coleman is survived by his wife, Nicole,
and parents; and
WHEREAS, The banner of freedom will always wave over our beloved New
York and all of America, the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave;
and
WHEREAS, Residents of this great State must never forget the courage
with which these men and women served their country, and must recognize
that no greater debt is owed than that owed to those who gave their
lives for their beloved Nation and to those who continue to be missing
in action; and
WHEREAS, The freedoms and security we cherish as Americans come at a
very high price for those serving in the military in times of conflict;
it is fitting and proper that we who are the beneficiaries of those who
risk their lives, leaving their families behind, express our appreci-
ation and eternal gratitude for their sacrifices and courageous acts;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the untimely death of Specialist Justin D. Coleman and paying
tribute to his courageous actions as a member of the United States Army;
and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the family of Specialist Justin D. Coleman.