LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Michael Burns in recognition of his
heroic actions during a fire in Ulster, New York

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize the
caring concern and heroic acts of those citizens who take prompt action
in emergency situations, and in doing so, help others to avert life-
threatening danger; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Michael Burns in recognition of his heroic acts in coming to the rescue
of two citizens of this great Empire State; and
WHEREAS, In recognition for his heroic actions, Michael Burns received
a Pride of the Town Award from the town of Ulster, New York; and
WHEREAS, On Saturday, October 8, 2011, Michael Bums and two neighbors
quickly responded to a house explosion in their neighborhood; and
WHEREAS, Upon arriving at the scene, Michael Burns ensured that home-
owner, John Friedel, was away from danger; and
WHEREAS, Without regard for his personal safety, Michael Burns entered
the smoke- and flame-filled home and immediately came to the aid of
Elizabeth Friedel; using a blanket to extinguish the fire from Mrs.
Friedel's clothing, he and the others carried her outside away from the
burning home; and
WHEREAS, Michael Burns, through his spontaneous and heroic actions,
demonstrated his character and compassion for the welfare of another,
personifying, by virtue of his actions, the collective concern of ordi-
nary citizens across the communities of the State of New York who volun-
tarily respond when others are in need of help; and
WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to publicly recog-
nize and honor citizens who take extraordinary action to protect the
lives of their neighbors in this great Empire State; now, therefore, be
it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Michael Burns in recognition of his heroic actions in coming to
the aid of another citizen of this great Empire State; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Michael Burns.