Senate Resolution No. 2171

BY: Senator GRIFFO

HONORING William Sawyer upon the occasion of his
retirement after 43 years of distinguished service
to Fort Stanwix

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to acknowledge
those individuals whose professional lives and civic endeavors serve to
enhance the stature of the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
William Sawyer upon the occasion of his retirement after 43 years of
distinguished service to Fort Stanwix; and

WHEREAS, For the past 43 years, William Sawyer rendered faithful,
conscientious, and valuable service to Fort Stanwix; and

WHEREAS, Known as "the fort that never surrendered," Fort Stanwix,
under the command of Colonel Peter Gansevoort, successfully repelled a
prolonged siege, in August 1777, by British, German, Loyalist, Canadian,
and American Indian troops and warriors commanded by British General
Barry St. Leger; and

WHEREAS, Born June 10, 1962, William "Bill" Sawyer grew up in
Boonville, New York and attended Adirondack Central School where he was
heavily involved in the music curriculum and music activities in the
community; and

WHEREAS, William Sawyer graduated in 1980, then he earned an
Associate's Degree in Music from Onondaga Community College in Syracuse,
New York, and a Bachelor's Degree in Music from Mansfield University in
Mansfield, Pennsylvania; and

WHEREAS, William Sawyer began his career at Fort Stanwix in 1982, as
a volunteer musician and in 1983, he became a seasonal staff member;
this led to a permanent position as a National Park Ranger in the early
2000's; and

WHEREAS, Over the years, William Sawyer has been the lead park
military field musician, historian, living history coordinator, historic
weapons supervisor, and volunteer program coordinator; and

WHEREAS, In his capacity as National Park Ranger, William Sawyer
served with loyalty, honor and distinction; and

WHEREAS, In his official acts, William Sawyer was governed by a keen
sense of duty and always showed a unique grasp of human problems; and

WHEREAS, During his tenure with Fort Stanwix, William Sawyer earned
the admiration, esteem and affection of his colleagues; now, therefore,
be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor William Sawyer upon the occasion of his retirement after 43 years
of distinguished service to Fort Stanwix; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to William Sawyer.