Senate Resolution No. 1211

BY: Senator HINCHEY

COMMENDING Raymond J. Turner posthumously upon the
occasion of his designation as recipient of a
Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon an
individual by the New York State Senate

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 esteemed Body; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to commend Raymond J.
Turner posthumously upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of
a Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon an individual by the
New York State Senate; the Dutchess County Office of Veterans Affairs
will be honoring Raymond J. Turner on Tuesday, June 17, 2025; and

WHEREAS, The New York State Senate Liberty Medal was established by
Resolution and is awarded to individuals who have merited special
commendation for exceptional, heroic, or humanitarian acts on behalf of
their fellow New Yorkers; and

WHEREAS, Born on January 19, 1932, in Troy, New York, Raymond J.
Turner grew up with strong values and a deep appreciation for family and
community; and

WHEREAS, Raymond J. Turner attended St. Patrick's School and LaSalle
Institute, where he laid the foundation for a life of integrity and
dedication; and

WHEREAS, Raymond J. Turner proudly served in the United States Air
Force during the Korean War, stationed in Tachikawa, Japan, as a
teletype and radio operator; and

WHEREAS, For his courageous service, Raymond J. Turner's commitment
to service earned him the Korean Service Medal, the National Defense
Service Medal, and the UN Service Medal--recognitions of his
contributions and sacrifice; and

WHEREAS, After his military service, Raymond J. Turner called upon
his skills and experience to build a career with Western Union; and

WHEREAS, Raymond J. Turner had a passion for sales and became known
as "the last great salesman," a title befitting his natural charisma and
ability to connect with people; and

WHEREAS, During his tenure with Western Union, fate led Raymond J.
Turner to the love of his life and wife of 56 years, Muriel; together,
they raised seven children--Thomas, Gloria, Linda, Colleen, Michael,
Richard, and Laurie--who became the heart of their shared journey; and

WHEREAS, Raymond J. Turner's legacy flourished through 13
grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, each touched by his wisdom,
warmth, and boundless love; and


WHEREAS, Having an appetite for exploration and adventure, Raymond
J. Turner loved traveling the country with Muriel, making lifelong
friends along the way; and

WHEREAS, With a gift for music and a beautiful voice that brought
joy to many, Raymond J. Turner shared a remarkable moment on stage when
he sang with Willie Nelson--a memory cherished by those who knew him;
and

WHEREAS, Raymond J. Turner died on December 14, 2011, at the age of
79; and

WHEREAS, Raymond J. Turner's life was a testament to love,
adventure, and dedication; he is remembered as a devoted husband,
cherished father, and admired grandfather whose life was marked by
kindness, resilience, a vibrant spirit, service, and an unwavering zest
for life; 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,
Raymond J. Turner 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 Raymond J. Turner posthumously upon the occasion of his
designation as recipient of a Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed
upon an individual by the New York State Senate; and be it further

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