Senate Resolution No. 524

BY: Senator AKSHAR

COMMEMORATING the 100th Anniversary of the Norwich
American Legion Post No. 189 on March 9, 2019

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize that
the quality and character of life in the communities across New York
State are reflective of the concerned and dedicated efforts of those
organizations and individuals who would devote themselves to the welfare
of the community and its citizenry; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the Norwich American Legion Post
No. 189 to be celebrated with a dinner on Saturday, March 9, 2019; and

WHEREAS, This American Legion Centennial Celebration is not only
about honoring the past 100 years of its history, but also preparing to
continue its legacy of service to Veterans and their families; events
and activities at posts around the world will showcase The American
Legion "Still Serving America"; and

WHEREAS, The American Legion was chartered by Congress in 1919, as a
patriotic veteran's organization; and

WHEREAS, Focusing on service to veterans, service members and
communities, the American Legion evolved from a group of war-weary
veterans of World War I into one of the most influential nonprofit
groups in the United States; and

WHEREAS, Over the years, the American Legion has influenced
considerable social change in America, won hundreds of benefits for
veterans and produced many important programs for children and youth;
membership currently stands at over 2.4 million in 14,000 posts
worldwide; and

WHEREAS, The Norwich American Legion Post No. 189 is the leading
advocate for veterans, a strong national defense, patriotic youth
programs and Americanism; and

WHEREAS, Throughout its history, 33 World War I veterans served as
Commander; two members, husband and wife, veterans of World War I held
the title of Commander, as did their son, a World War II veteran; the
last World War I veteran died in 2002; and

WHEREAS, Under the luminous leadership of Commander Willard W.
Griffin, the success of the Norwich American Legion Post No. 189 is in
direct correlation to the efforts of its members and volunteers, whose
involvement is, and always has been, characterized by an impressive
commitment, an unbridled enthusiasm, and an uncompromising standard of
excellence in all endeavors on behalf of the organization and the
community it serves; and

WHEREAS, Today, the Norwich American Legion Post No. 189 continues
its dedication to fostering the traditions of patriotism, excellence,
and commitment which have made our nation strong; it is the custom of
this Legislative Body to recognize the significance of their
contributions and to note their worthy endeavors which have earned the
recognition and applause of all the citizens of this great Empire State;
now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the Norwich American Legion Post
No. 189 on March 1, 2019; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Willard W. Griffin, Commander, the Norwich American
Legion Post No. 189.