LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Sergeant Major Clayton L. Esters 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
Sergeant Major Clayton L. Esters 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 Vinium 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, Sergeant Major Clayton Esters joined the New York Guard on
August 18, 2000, after retirement from the United States Army; as a
Staff Sergeant, he rose to the highest enlisted rank of Sergeant Major
and retired on May 31, 2010, after more than 40 years of exemplary
service to his State and Nation; and
WHEREAS, A resident of the Peekskill unit, Sergeant Major Clayton
Esters was Command Sergeant Major, the chief enlisted soldier, of his
unit; and
WHEREAS, Sergeant Major Clayton Esters was highly decorated for his
exemplary service during the World Trade Center mobilization and
missions in support of the New York National Guard as well as for his
consistent and efficient management during this time of crisis; and
WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the occurrence of such a blending of strength,
leadership, intellect, and commitment as that demonstrated by Sergeant
Major Clayton L. Esters over a lifetime of sacrifice and dedication to
others; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Sergeant Major Clayton L. Esters 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 Sergeant Major Clayton L. Esters, Peekskill, New York.