LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring the Hispanic American Veterans of West-
ern New York for their brave and valiant service to the United States

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those who give
positive definition to the profile and disposition of the American Armed
Forces so profoundly strengthen our shared commitment to the exercise of
freedom; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor the
Hispanic American Veterans of Western New York for their brave and
valiant service to the United States; and
WHEREAS, In 2011, there was a groundbreaking ceremony of the Western
New York Hispanic American Veterans Memorial; this monument will honor
the service of past, present and future Hispanic American veterans from
Western New York; and
WHEREAS, There are over 1.1 million Hispanic Veterans of the United
States Armed Forces; the 65th Infantry was formed in 1899 for Puerto
Rican soldiers and they participated in missions during World War I,
World War II, and the Korean War; and
WHEREAS, Western New York is home to an estimated 75,000 residents of
Hispanic ancestry, including hundreds of Hispanic veterans; during the
Vietnam War, five percent of young Hispanic males were active in the
Armed Forces; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is moved with great respect and rever-
ent esteem, and, on behalf of all of the citizens of the Empire State,
to renew its tribute to the men and women of New York State who so cour-
ageously served their State and Nation during times of war in defense of
freedom and democracy; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor the Hispanic American Veterans of Western New York for their brave
and valiant service to the United States.