LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Colonel Richard Bard 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 which embodies the ideals of democracy, and as a defen-
der of liberty for people throughout the world; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Colonel Richard Bard 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
the Vinum Cafe, Brotherhood Winery in Washingtonville, New York, on
Sunday, March 27, 2011; 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, Colonel Richard Bard was a urologist with the 244th Medical
Clinic; after retiring from the United States Army, he joined the New
York Guard on April 21, 1999, as a Lieutenant Colonel; and
WHEREAS, Colonel Richard Bard was placed in command of the 244th
Medical Clinic on September 11, 2001, and commanded medical assets
during the World Trade Center response; his valiant orders during that
turbulent period were cool-headed and professional, protecting soldiers
from both short and long-term injury; and
WHEREAS, Once promoted to Colonel he continued command of the 244th
Medical Clinic, providing services to the National Guard during large-
scale exercises at Fort Drum and post 9/11 'surges' to protect vital
infrastructure, among other missions; and
WHEREAS, Both the New York Guard and the State Guard Association of
the United States have recognized the 244th Medical Clinic and Colonel
Richard Bard for superior performance; he was placed on the State
Reserve List on October 11, 2009; subsequently, he was commissioned a
Captain in the United States Public Health Service Reserve Corps, where
he has continued his service to his nation; and
WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the occurrence of such a blending of strength,
leadership, intellect, and commitment as that demonstrated by Colonel
Richard Bard over a lifetime of sacrifice and dedication to others; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Colonel Richard Bard upon the occasion of his retirement 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 Colonel Richard Bard, New York City, New York.