LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Major Michael B. Finklestein, MC upon
the occasion of his retirement after many years of distinguished service
to the 244th Medical Clinic, New York Guard

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to acknowledge the
significant milestones in the distinguished careers of esteemed resi-
dents of this noble Empire State; and
WHEREAS, Individuals who devote their lives to military service merit
the commendation and applause of all the citizens of this great Empire
State for their dedication and sacrifices which ensure our continued
role as a Nation; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Major Michael B. Finklestein, MC upon the occasion of his retirement
after many years of distinguished service to the 244th Medical Clinic,
New York Guard, to be celebrated at its Annual Reception and Retirement
Dinner at Tre Angelina Restaurant in Monroe, New York, on Sunday, April
29, 2012; and
WHEREAS, Established in 1917, the New York Guard is an all-volunteer,
unpaid component of the state's military forces; its mission is to
augment state military forces and support civil authorities within the
state; and
WHEREAS, The 244th Medical Clinic is the principal, centrally located
medical asset of the New York Guard; with approximately 35 members, the
soldiers and officers of the 244th Medical Clinic are unpaid volunteer
physicians, surgeons, psychiatrists, dentists, nurses, psychologists,
paramedics, and experts in emergency planning and response, among other
professionals; and
WHEREAS, A resident of Chappaqua and a physician certified in internal
medicine, Major Michael B. Finklestein joined the New York Guard as a
Major on November 17, 2001, during the 9/11 activation; he was imme-
diately placed on State Active Duty; and
WHEREAS, After long service as a medical officer in the 244th Medical
Clinic, Major Michael B. Finklestein was appointed Chief Surgeon of the
New York Guard as a member of the personal staff and chief medical advi-
sor to the Commander, New York Guard; and
WHEREAS, Major Michael B. Finklestein is relocating to another state
and will separate from the New York Guard after over 10 years of service
in the 244th Medical Clinic; and
WHEREAS, Major Michael B. Finklestein has been decorated for superior
service, receiving the New York Guard Commander's Citation; he has also
been awarded the New York Guard Operation Support Medal in recognition
of his service in direct support of the New York Army National Guard;
and
WHEREAS, Over his many years of unpaid, voluntary duty in the New York
Guard, Major Michael B. Finklestein has provided many thousands of
dollars of service value to the State; and
WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the occurrence of such a blending of strength,
leadership, intellect, and commitment as that demonstrated by Major
Michael B. Finklestein, MC over a lifetime of sacrifice and dedication
to others; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Major Michael B. Finklestein, MC upon the occasion of his retire-
ment after many years of distinguished service to the 244th Medical
Clinic, New York Guard; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Major Michael B. Finklestein, MC.