LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Frank R. Fratellenico 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, It is incumbent upon the people of the State of New York to
recognize and acknowledge those within our midst who have made signif-
icant contributions to the quality of life therein; and
WHEREAS, From time to time this Legislative Body takes note of certain
extraordinary individuals it wishes to recognize for their valued
contributions to the success and progress of society and publicly
acknowledge their endeavors which have enhanced the basic humanity among
us all; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Frank R.
Fratellenico posthumously upon the occasion of his designation as recip-
ient of a Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon an individual
by the New York State Senate; and
WHEREAS, The New York State Senate Liberty Medal was created in 2000
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, Corporal Frank R. Fratellenico entered service as a member of
the United States Army in Albany, New York, distinguishing himself for
his sacrifice as a rifleman during the Vietnam War; and
WHEREAS, After his squad was pinned down by intense fire from an enemy
attack, this brave man at great personal risk, advanced forward and used
hand grenades to neutralize the first bunker of enemy soldiers he came
upon; and
WHEREAS, While attacking the second bunker, Corporal Frank R. Fratel-
lenico was struck by enemy fire, dropping a grenade he was prepared to
throw; alert to the imminent danger of his comrades, he fell on the
grenade to protect them; and
WHEREAS, Frank R. Fratellenico's heroic actions prevented death or
serious injury to his fellow soldiers and inspired them to victory that
day; and
WHEREAS, The conspicuous gallantry, extraordinary heroism, and intrep-
idity at the cost of his life are in keeping with the highest traditions
of military service, reflecting greatly on him, his unit, and the United
States Army; and
WHEREAS, Our Nation's fallen 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
honor Frank R. Fratellenico posthumously upon the occasion of his desig-
nation 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 tran-
smitted to the family of Frank R. Fratellenico.