LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Robert Sweet in recognition of his
distinction as a Chevalier of The National Order of the Legion of Honor
by the Nation of France

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to acknowledge
outstanding individuals whose military service was extraordinary and
resulted in decorations for achievement and meritorious service, and
especially for those Veterans who so valiantly served for the benefit of
other people and nations; and
WHEREAS, It is also the intent of this Legislative Body to recognize
and honor distinguished individual soldiers who have been honored by the
governments of other nations, grateful for their military service in
securing or maintaining peace and freedom; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Robert Sweet in recognition of his distinction as a Chevalier of The
National Order of the Legion of Honor, the highest decoration given by
the Nation of France, for his service in the liberation of their country
during World War II; and
WHEREAS, Robert Sweet valiantly served the United States and the
Allied Forces in World War II as a member of the 502nd Parachute Infan-
try Regiment, United States Army 101st Airborne Division; and
WHEREAS, Parachuting into France near Saint Martin-de-Varreville on
D-Day, June 5, 1944, he was one of the first Americans to assist in the
liberation of France from Germany; and
WHEREAS, This decorated soldier, who was wounded twice while on duty
in Europe, also received two Purple Hearts, the Combat Infantryman
Badge, Parachute Wings, the New York State Conspicuous Service Cross and
the French Jubilee of Liberty Medal; and
WHEREAS, Upon his discharge from Army in 1945, Robert Sweet returned
home to his wife, Gladys, where the couple worked together at Rockwell's
Department Store; the Sweets purchased the department store in the
1950s, and operated it until 1990; and
WHEREAS, Dedicated to serving his community, Robert Sweet served as a
volunteer firefighter with the McEwen Hose Company for more than 70
years; he was also a member of the Wellsville Chamber of Commerce, the
Wellsville Lions Club, the Morrison Hayes Post 702 American Legion, and
the Frank B. Church Post No. 2530 Veterans of Foreign Wars, as well as
several other organizations; and
WHEREAS, This loyal family man made substantial contributions to his
family as a loving husband, father, and grandfather; he and his wife,
Gladys, raised two children, David and Kathryn; they also were blessed
with six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; now, therefore, be
it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Robert Sweet in recognition of his distinction as a Chevalier of
The National Order of the Legion of Honor by the Nation of France; and
be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the Family of Robert Sweet.