LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION celebrating the life and accomplishments of
William Gray, Sr. distinguished citizen and devoted member of his commu-
nity

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
citizens of the State of New York whose lifework and civic endeavor
served to enhance the quality of life in their communities and the great
State of New York; and
WHEREAS, Former members of the Armed Services from the State of New
York, who have served so valiantly and honorably in wars in which this
country's freedom was at stake, as well as in the preservation of peace
in peacetime, deserve a special salute from this Legislative Body; and
WHEREAS, Having exhibited their patriotism both at home and abroad,
these men and women demonstrated their love for their country and merit
forevermore, the highest respect of their State and Nation; and
WHEREAS, The late William J. Gray, Sr. was honored on Monday, May 2,
2011, at the Albany County "Honor a Veteran Ceremony" in Albany, New
York; and
WHEREAS, William J. Gray, Sr. of Delmar, New York, died on August 29,
2009; he was born on November 9, 1930, in Albany, New York; in 1955, he
served in the United States Air Force and National Security Agency; and
WHEREAS, During his active duty military service, William J. Gray, Sr.
was in the Korean conflict and received the National Defense Service
Medal, Good Conduct Medal and United Nations Service Medal; and
WHEREAS, After his military service, William J. Gray, Sr. was employed
as a lawyer with the Albany Corporation Counsel's Office, Public
Defender's Office and New York State Legislature; in 1958, he entered
the private practice of law; and
WHEREAS, In addition, William J. Gray, Sr. was a member of the North
Albany American Legion Post and served as the Judge Advocate of the
American Legion; he was also a member of the Korean War veterans organ-
ization; and
WHEREAS, Active in his community, William J. Gray, Sr. was President
of the Bethlehem Business and Professional Men's Association, as well as
a member of the Board of Hope House; and
WHEREAS, William J. Gray, Sr. is survived by his wife, Helen; he is
also survived by his children: William J. Gray, Jr. (Betsy); Robert
Gray; Christine M. Molinsek (Stephen); Elizabeth A. Augstell (Stephen);
and Richard Gray (Tracy); now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
celebrate the life and accomplishments of William J. Gray, Sr., distin-
guished citizen and devoted member of his community; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the family of William J. Gray, Sr.