Senate Resolution No. 2158

BY: Senator BRESLIN

COMMENDING Michael J. Aidala posthumously upon the
occasion of his designation for special recognition
by Albany County at its Honor a Veteran Ceremony on
July 1, 2019

WHEREAS, Members of the Armed Services from the State of New York,
who have served so valiantly and honorably in wars in which this
country's freedom was at stake, as well as in the preservation of peace
in peace-time, deserve a special salute; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to commend Michael J.
Aidala posthumously upon the occasion of his designation for special
recognition by Albany County at its Honor a Veteran Ceremony on Monday,
July 1, 2019, at the Joseph E. Zaloga American Legion Post No. 1520,
Albany, New York; and

WHEREAS, In June of 1993, a committee was formed by the Albany
County Veterans Bureau, known as the Albany County Honor a Veteran
Committee, created to honor a deceased Albany County veteran who served
his country in time of conflict; the Honor a Veteran Program takes place
on the first Monday of each month; and

WHEREAS, Born on March 22, 1937, in Albany, New York, Michael J.
Aidala enlisted in the United States National Guard and Reserves in
1954, and proudly served his country as a member of the New York
National Guard's 210th Armor Division for 26 years and seven months,
retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel; and

WHEREAS, For his meritorious service, Michael J. Aidala was awarded
the Army Commendation Medal and the Armed Forces Reserve Medal; and

WHEREAS, Upon the completion of his military service in 1981,
Michael J. Aidala returned to Albany and enjoyed a long and
distinguished career as a civil servant; he held the title of Deputy
Mayor, and was a Trustee for the Village of Colonie from 1979 until his
passing; and

WHEREAS, Michael J. Aidala was also an Albany County Legislator for
the 27th District, Commissioner of the Albany County Sewer District, and
liaison to the Village of Colonie Department of Public Works, Sign
Review Board and Tax Assessor; and

WHEREAS, In addition to these roles, Michael J. Aidala worked with
his father, brothers and nephews at Quail Auto Sales; and

WHEREAS, Devoted to his fellow veterans and community, Michael J.
Aidala was actively involved with numerous organizations including the
210th Armor Association, the Joseph E. Zaloga American Legion Post No.
1520, VFW Post 8692, Hudson Mohawk Elected Officials Association, West
Albany Italian Benevolent Society, Albany Polish American Citizens Club,
Thunder Road Senior Citizens Club, Colonie Fire Company, Boy Scout Troop
278, and Our Lady of Mercy Church Little League, as well as Forest Park
and Sand Creek Middle School PTAs; and


WHEREAS, Michael J. Aidala died on July 25, 2017, at the age of 80;
and

WHEREAS, Residents of this great State must never forget the courage
with which these men and women served their country, and must recognize
that no greater debt is owed than that owed to those who gave their
lives for their beloved Nation and to those who continue to be missing
in action; and

WHEREAS, Having exhibited his patriotism both at home and abroad,
Michael J. Aidala demonstrated his love for his country and merits
forevermore, the highest respect of his State and Nation; and

WHEREAS, Our Nation's veterans deserve to be recognized, commended
and thanked by the people of the State of New York for their service and
for their dedication to their communities, their State and their Nation;
now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend Michael J. Aidala posthumously upon the occasion of his
designation for special recognition by Albany County at its Honor a
Veteran Ceremony on July 1, 2019; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Michael J. Aidala.