LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring World War II veteran Sylvester Puccio
upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the United States
Navy and Marine Corps Medal of Commendation

WHEREAS, 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 peace-
time, deserve a special salute from this Legislative Body; and
WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to commend those
who have served in times of active conflict, as well as those who have
served in times of peace; 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, This Legislative Body is justly proud to honor World War II
veteran Sylvester Puccio upon the occasion of his designation as recipi-
ent of the United States Navy and Marine Corps Medal of Commendation on
Monday, February 20, 2012, at the Franklin Hotel in Rome, New York; 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, A Pearl Harbor survivor, Sylvester Puccio of Rome, will be
awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with the Combat
Distinguishing Device by United States Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus,
in recognition of his actions during the attack on December 7, 1941; and
WHEREAS, The citation that accompanies 90 year-old Sylvester Puccio's
medal outlines his heroic achievement during the Pearl Harbor attack as
a Navy 3rd Class Shipfitter aboard the battleship USS West Virginia; he
is credited in several historical accounts as helping to prevent the
stricken ship from capsizing by playing a key part in counter-flooding
measures; and
WHEREAS, Sylvester Puccio's unswerving determination, decisiveness,
and complete dedication to duty reflect his true valor upholding the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service; while under fire,
he saved the lives of many aboard the USS West Virginia and it is only
fitting that he be meritoriously honored; and
WHEREAS, Our Nation's veterans deserve to be recognized, commended and
thanked by the people of the State of New York for their service and for
their dedication to their communities, their State and their Nation;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor World War II veteran Sylvester Puccio upon the occasion of his
designation as recipient of the United States Navy and Marine Corps
Medal of Commendation; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Sylvester Puccio.