LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commending Technical Sergeant Joseph Wilkinson
for his valiant military service as a member of the Security Forces for
the United States Air Force

WHEREAS, Members of the Armed Services from the State of New York, who
have served so faithfully and courageously in wars in which our Nation's
freedom was at stake, as well as in the preservation of peace during
peacetime, deserve a special salute from this Legislative Body; and
WHEREAS, The dedication and sacrifices of our military personnel
ensure our continued role as a Nation which embodies the ideals of
democracy, and is a defender of liberty for peoples throughout the
world; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to commend Technical
Sergeant Joseph Wilkinson for his valiant military service as a member
of the Security Forces for the United States Air Force; and
WHEREAS, Technical Sergeant Joseph Wilkinson manned the front gates
and conducted mobile patrols around the perimeters of five different
overseas installations in support of both Operation Enduring Freedom and
Operation Iraqi Freedom; and
WHEREAS, Since coming home, this American hero has bravely entered
into a more personal battle, facing an undiagnosed medical problem; and
WHEREAS, With true courage and valor, Sergeant Joseph Wilkinson has
used his most recent ailment to reach out to other veterans, via the
internet, who are battling similar situations; 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 brave men and woman like Technical Sergeant Joseph Wilkinson
have served their country, and must recognize that no greater debt is
owed than that owed to those who have risked their lives for their
beloved Nation; 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
commend Technical Sergeant Joseph Wilkinson for his valiant military
service as a member of the Security Forces for the United States Air
Force; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Technical Sergeant Joseph Wilkinson.