Assembly Resolution No. 500

BY: M. of A. Lemondes

MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim
May 20, 2023, as Armed Forces Day 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 peacetime, 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 Kathy Hochul to proclaim Saturday, May 20, 2023, as Armed
Forces Day in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance
of National Armed Forces Day; and

WHEREAS, Americans celebrate Armed Forces Day annually on the third
Saturday of May, and Armed Forces Week, which begins every year on the
second Saturday of May; and

WHEREAS, Many events across the United States take place on Armed
Forces Day to honor Americans in uniform who served their country in
times of war and peace; and

WHEREAS, President Harry S. Truman led the effort to establish a
single holiday for citizens to come together and thank our military
members for their patriotic service in support of our country; on August
31, 1949, Secretary of Defense, Louis Johnson, announced the creation of
an Armed Forces Day to replace separate Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air
Force Days; and

WHEREAS, Previously observed as Armistice Day, which honored those
who wore the cloth of our nation at war; and unlike Memorial Day, which
honors those who died wearing the cloth of our nation at war, Armed
Forces Day is the proper day to honor all of the men and women currently
serving, as well as those who have served and sacrificed to defend our
freedom; and

WHEREAS, National Guard and Reserve units may celebrate Armed Forces
Day/Week over any period in May because of their unique training
schedules; and

WHEREAS, Events and activities may include multi-service military
displays in areas open for the public; various educational activities
that teach children about the Armed Forces; and

WHEREAS, Certain types of music are played at Armed Forces Day
events, including at memorials and at cemeteries, as a way to respect
those in the Armed Forces who died for their country, such as "Taps" on
the bugle; 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 Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 20, 2023, as Armed
Forces Day in the State of New York; and be it further

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