Senate Resolution No. 2169

BY: Senator GRIFFO

COMMENDING Walter Constantini upon the occasion of
his designation for special recognition by the Lake
Delta Kiwanis Club of Rome on June 6, 2026

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend those distinguished citizens of the State of New York whose
purposeful lives and exemplary service contribute greatly to the
strength and vitality of their communities and this great Nation; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commend Walter Constantini upon the occasion of his designation for
special recognition by the Lake Delta Kiwanis Club of Rome, to be
celebrated on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Gone Coastal in Lee Center, New
York; and

WHEREAS, Walter "Walt" Constantini has long distinguished himself
through his steadfast dedication to his country, his community, and his
fellow veterans, earning the admiration and respect of all who have had
the privilege to know him; and

WHEREAS, Born in Mineola, New York, and raised in Bethel,
Connecticut, Walter Constantini answered the call to serve his Nation by
joining the United States Air Force in June of 1961; and

WHEREAS, Following completion of basic training at Lackland Air
Force Base, Walter Constantini attended technical school at Amarillo Air
Force Base for jet engine training, beginning a distinguished military
career marked by professionalism, commitment, and honor; and

WHEREAS, During his years of faithful military service, Walter
Constantini was assigned to Ellsworth Air Force Base, Thule Air Force
Base in Greenland, Sewart Air Force Base in Nashville, Tennessee, Dow
Air Force Base in Bangor, Maine, RAF Lakenheath in England, Loring Air
Force Base in Maine, and Griffiss Air Force Base in Rome, New York,
where he concluded his exemplary Air Force career upon retirement; and

WHEREAS, Walter Constantini also proudly served with the last active
squadron of General Claire Chennault's famed Flying Tigers while
stationed at Dow Air Force Base, adding to a legacy of military
excellence and dedication; and

WHEREAS, Following his retirement from the United States Air Force,
Walter Constantini continued his strong work ethic and commitment to
excellence in the private sector, dedicating 17 years to Orion Bus,
three years to Carrier Air Conditioning, and nine years to Commander
Aviation and Empire Aviation before his retirement; and

WHEREAS, Walter Constantini's devotion to veterans and civic service
is further demonstrated through his extraordinary 48 years of membership
in the American Legion, during which time he served with distinction as
Commander of the Lee Center American Legion Post for eight years, County

Commander of the Oneida County American Legion, Oneida County Adjutant
for two years, and Fifth District Chaplain for two years; and

WHEREAS, Walter Constantini has also found great fulfillment in his
devotion to family; he shared 31 years of marriage with his beloved
wife, Joanne, until her passing five years ago, and together they raised
a loving family of five children, 11 grandchildren, and three
great-grandchildren; and

WHEREAS, Throughout his life, Walter Constantini has exemplified the
highest ideals of patriotism, integrity, public service, and community
spirit, leaving an enduring legacy of honorable achievement and selfless
dedication; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend Walter Constantini upon the occasion of his designation for
special recognition by the Lake Delta Kiwanis Club of Rome; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Walter Constantini.