Senate Resolution No. 1899

BY: Senator GRIFFO

COMMEMORATING the 100th Anniversary of the Royal
Canadian Air Force

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize the
achievements of those military organizations that contribute
substantially to the defense and safety of not only the Empire State but
also the Nation; 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 Royal Canadian Air Force to be
celebrated at its Annual Mess Dinner at Hart's Hill Inn in Whitesboro,
New York, on Friday, April 12, 2024; and

WHEREAS, On April 1, 1924, the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) was
formed by the Canadian Air Force after it was granted a royal sanction
by King George V; and

WHEREAS, At its inception, the RCAF was not an independent
organization, reporting to the Chief of the General Staff, the head of
the Canadian Militia (now called Canadian Army); however, it was a
full-time organization with its own orders which included the King's
Regulations and Orders for the Royal Canadian Air Force; and

WHEREAS, The RCAF's purpose is not only the defense of Canada but
also, more importantly, flying operations performed for other
governments' departments; it protects Canadian and North American
airspace in partnership with the United States; and

WHEREAS, The United States and Canada share a long-standing
commitment to working together for our common defense and security, and
the continuation of this successful relationship through the North
American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) is paramount to the future
security of the people of the United States and Canada; this includes
the Eastern Air Defense Sector (EADS), a component of the New York Air
National Guard, in Rome, New York; and

WHEREAS, This centennial celebration is an opportunity to showcase
Air Force personnel and their accomplishments, demonstrate air and space
power, enhance the reputation of the RCAF, and proudly honor its
distinguished history and heritage; the RCAF has proven its importance
through its contributions to national safety and security, international
peace, and global stability; and

WHEREAS, It is with great pleasure that this Legislative Body
acknowledges this exceptional military element, its assurance of the
defense of New York State and the Nation, and its invaluable role in
improving the freedom of the citizenry; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force; and
be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Royal Canadian Air Force.