Senate Resolution No. 391

BY: Senator HARCKHAM

MEMORIALIZING Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim
February 10-16, 2019, as Salute to Veteran Patients
Week in the State of New York

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 from this Legislative Body; and

WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to commend those
who have served in times of active conflict, as well as those who have
served in times of peace; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to memorialize
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim February 10-16, 2019, as Salute to
Veteran Patients Week in the State of New York, in conjunction with the
observance of National Salute to Veterans Patients Week; and

WHEREAS, Celebrated each year during the week of Valentine's Day,
the National Salute to Veteran Patients Program pays tribute and
expresses appreciation to veterans, increases community awareness of the
role of the Veterans Affairs (VA) medical center, and encourages
citizens to visit hospitalized veterans to express their affection and
respect; and

WHEREAS, This special week gives the citizens of the United States
an opportunity to say thank you to a special group of men and women,
more than 98,000 Veterans of the United States armed services who are
cared for every day in VA medical centers, outpatient clinics,
domiciliaries, and nursing homes; and

WHEREAS, During the National Salute, the Department of VA invites
individuals, veterans groups, military personnel, civic organizations,
businesses, schools, local media, celebrities and sports stars to
participate in a variety of activities at the VA medical centers; some
of these special events include ward visits, valentine distributions,
photo opportunities, school essay contests, special recreation
activities and veteran recognition programs; and

WHEREAS, The week also provides an opportunity for the community to
become acquainted with the volunteer opportunities within the medical
center; and

WHEREAS, Each and every American citizen is privileged to live in a
nation which has a special place in its hearts for these defenders of
freedom; 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 their patriotism both at home and abroad,
these men and women demonstrated their love for their country and merit
forevermore, the highest respect of their 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
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim February 10-16, 2019,
as Salute to Veteran Patients Week in the State of New York; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of
New York.