LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION celebrating the recovery from critical wounds and
homecoming of United States Army Sergeant James Hackemer

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to celebrate the cour-
age and bravery of the United States Armed Forces who have made great
sacrifices in fulfilling their missions as part of Operation Iraqi Free-
dom to ensure our continued role as a Nation which embodies the ideals
of a democracy and as a defender of liberty for people throughout the
world; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to celebrate
the recovery and homecoming of Sergeant James Hackemer, who was serious-
ly wounded early in his second tour of duty in Iraq when his vehicle hit
several improvised explosive devices in a convoy on its way to Baghdad;
and
WHEREAS, At the time of the incident, Sergeant James Hackemer was
serving in the 230th Military Police Company, 95th Military Police
Battalion, 18th Military Police brigade; the 230th Military Police
Company worked with the Iraqi Police to provide training in securing
their country; and
WHEREAS, Sergeant Hackemer lost both legs and suffered from a massive
amount of blood loss and traumatic brain injury in the explosion; he
also suffered a stroke during medical treatment and spent more than a
month in a coma; and
WHEREAS, Overcoming dramatic odds, Sergeant Hackemer courageously
endured lengthy and difficult therapy and treatments to learn to eat and
speak again, and to learn to use prosthetic legs; and
WHEREAS, Residents of this great Empire State must never forget the
courage with which members of the United States Armed Forces have served
their country, and must recognize that no greater debt is owed than that
owed to those who have made great sacrifices for this great Nation; and
WHEREAS, The freedoms and security we cherish as Americans comes at a
very high price for those serving in the military in times of conflict;
it is fitting and proper that we who are beneficiaries of those who risk
their lives, leaving their families behind, express our appreciation and
eternal gratitude for their sacrifices and courageous acts; and
WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to publicly honor
those veterans who have made extraordinary personal sacrifices during
their military service, and who have fought against great odds to
recover and return to their families and communities; now, therefore, be
it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
celebrate the homecoming of Sergeant James Hackemer, a native of Gowan-
da, New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Sergeant James Hackemer.