LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION mourning the untimely death of Sergeant William
R. Wilson III of Getzville, New York, and paying tribute to his coura-
geous actions as a member of the United States Army

WHEREAS, The courage and bravery of our military personnel since the
United States Armed Forces commenced Operation Enduring Freedom will
ensure our continued role as a Nation which embodies the ideals of
democracy, and as a defender of liberty for people throughout the world;
and
WHEREAS, Members of the Armed Services from the State of New York, who
have served so valiantly and honorably during Operation Enduring Free-
dom, deserve a special salute from this Legislative Body; and
WHEREAS, It is with feelings of deepest regret that this Legislative
Body mourns the untimely death of Sergeant William R. Wilson III of
Getzville, New York, and pays tribute to his courageous actions as a
member of the United States Army; and
WHEREAS, Army Sergeant William R. Wilson III was killed in Paktika
Province, located in the eastern part of Afghanistan, on Monday, March
26, 2012; the 27-year-old Army squad leader was training Afghan soldiers
and police to take over the country's security when the United States
withdraws from Afghanistan in 2014; and
WHEREAS, Sergeant William R. Wilson III enlisted in the United States
Army in 2005; although he was stationed in Germany, he was serving
another tour in Afghanistan; and
WHEREAS, Affectionately known as Billy by his family, Sergeant William
R. Wilson III was the loving son of William and Kimberly Wilson; and
WHEREAS, He is a 2003 graduate of Williamsville North High School and
was recently home visiting family in Western New York; and
WHEREAS, The banner of freedom will always wave over our beloved New
York and all of America, the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave;
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, The freedoms and security we cherish as Americans come at a
very high price for those serving in the military in times of conflict;
it is fitting and proper that we who are the beneficiaries of those who
risk their lives, leaving their families behind, express our appreci-
ation and eternal gratitude for their sacrifices and courageous acts;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the untimely death of Sergeant William R. Wilson III of Getzville,
New York, and to pay tribute to his courageous actions as a member of
the United States Army; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the family of Sergeant William R. Wilson III.