LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring David Koegel in recognition of his
prompt and heroic actions in rescuing an elderly neighbor from a house
fire

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend the concerned and heroic acts of those citizens who would volun-
tarily take immediate and appropriate action to protect the health and
safety of others; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
David Koegel in recognition of his prompt and heroic actions in rescuing
an elderly neighbor as fire spread through her one-story home; and
WHEREAS, Around four o'clock on the morning of September 23, 2011,
David Koegel heard a commotion, so he hurried outside and spotted flames
billowing from the home of 79-year-old Kay Oldenburg, who resides next
door on Baker Boulevard in the Town of Van Buren; and
WHEREAS, Knowing he had to act quickly, David Koegel ran to
Oldenburg's home, broke a bedroom window and entered the house by crawl-
ing through the window; and
WHEREAS, Once inside, David Koegel swiftly searched the house until he
located Kay Oldenburg in her living room, which was filling up with
smoke; and
WHEREAS, That is when David Koegel took hold of Kay Oldenburg and led
her to safety; and
WHEREAS, A lifetime resident of Baldwinsville, David Koegel is
described by his friends and family as a kind and caring person, who
wanted to do the right thing; and
WHEREAS, Because of the selfless actions of David Koegel, along with
the rapid response of several local fire departments, Kay Oldenburg's
life was saved; and
WHEREAS, David Koegel has so aptly demonstrated his character and
compassion for the welfare of others; personifying, by virtue of his
action, the collective concern of ordinary citizens across the community
of New York State who voluntarily respond without thought of danger or
reward when others are in need of help; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to pay
tribute to David Koegel in recognition of his heroic actions in saving
the life of a potential neighbor; noting the significance of his immedi-
ate and unconditional response to come to the aid of others in a life-
threatening situation; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to David Koegel.