LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Luke V. Merwin upon the occasion of
receiving the Police Chiefs Association of Ulster County's Meritorious
Police Service Justice Award on May 4, 2011

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend the caring concern and heroic acts of individuals who take
prompt and appropriate measures, stepping in as concerned citizens in
emergency situations, and remaining calm under pressure, in an effort to
keep their community safe; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Luke
V. Merwin upon the occasion of receiving the Police Chiefs Association
of Ulster County's Meritorious Citizenship Justice Award, to be cele-
brated at its Annual Awards Banquet on Wednesday, May 4, 2011, at
Wiltwyck Golf Club in Kingston, New York; and
WHEREAS, On February 16, 2010, Luke V. Merwin was at work operating a
New York State Department of Transportation plow truck in the town of
Shandaken when he drove by a gas station and observed a group of youths
walking on the side of the road; and
WHEREAS, Luke V. Merwin continued on his route westbound, he turned
around and was headed back east when he passed the same gas station and
heard the burglar alarm sounding and saw the glass door broken; he
slowed down and noticed an individual dressed in black, wearing a ski
mask, and running from the store; and
WHEREAS, Taking note of the writing on the suspect's shirt, Luke V.
Merwin continued to keep meticulous surveillance, tracking the individ-
ual's every move; in doing this, he was able to notice a second subject
running behind his truck; he immediately contacted his dispatch point
who, in turn, called the police to the scene of the crime; and
WHEREAS, As a direct result of Luke V. Merwin's sharp observation and
immediate action, police were able to apprehend all the burglars
involved who were then detained, charged, and ultimately brought to
justice; and
WHEREAS, Through his spontaneous and heroic actions, Luke V. Merwin
demonstrated his character and his compassion for the welfare of others,
personifying, by virtue of his actions, the collective concern of ordi-
nary citizens across the community of New York State who voluntarily
respond without the thought of danger or reward when others are in need
of help; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Luke V. Merwin upon the occasion of receiving the Police Chiefs
Association of Ulster County's Meritorious Police Service Justice Award
on May 4, 2011; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Luke V. Merwin.