LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Private First Class Edward J. Hofem, Jr.
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 faithfully and courageously when our Nation's freedom was
at stake, as well as in the preservation of peace during peacetime,
deserve a special salute from this Legislative Body; and
WHEREAS, The dedication and sacrifices of our military personnel
ensure our continued role as a Nation which embodies the ideals of
democracy, and is a defender of liberty for peoples throughout the
world; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Private First
Class Edward J. Hofem, Jr. 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, to be celebrated on Monday,
August 25, 2014; and
WHEREAS, The New York State Senate Liberty Medal was established by a
resolution in 2014 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, Private First Class Edward J. Hofem, Jr. died on August 8,
2007, at the age of 87; and
WHEREAS, Born on October 11, 1919, to Elizabeth and Edward Hofem, Sr.
in Hudson, New York, Private First Class Edward J. Hofem, Jr. attended
Hudson Elementary School; and
WHEREAS, He began serving his country as a member of the United States
Army on July 24, 1942, in Upton, New York; and
WHEREAS, On November 30, 1945, Private First Class Edward J. Hofem,
Jr. was honorably discharged from Fort Dix, New York; and
WHEREAS, Private First Class Edward J. Hofem, Jr. was the recipient of
numerous awards and accolades for his exceptional service to his country
including: Bronze Star Medal, American Campaign Medal, Distinguished
Unit Badge, European-African-Middle Eastern Service Campaign Medal with
three Bronze Service Stars, World War II Victory Medal, World War II
Service Lapel Button, Presidential Unit Citation, Combat Infantryman
Badge, Marksman Badge with Rifle Bar, and Good Conduct Medal; and
WHEREAS, After his service, Private First Class Edward J. Hofem, Jr.
was employed as a Printer with the Universal Match Factory for over 40
years before he retired; and
WHEREAS, Private First Class Edward J. Hofem, Jr. was called upon to
contribute his time and talents to countless civic and charitable
endeavors and always gave of himself unstintingly; he was a member of
Christ Episcopal Church, JW Edmond Hose Fire Company for over 50 years,
Hudson Lodge of Elks No. 787 for over 50 years, and Hudson American
Legion Post No. 184; and
WHEREAS, With him throughout was his wife, Hazel, who felt privileged
to have been a part of his life and rejoice in his achievements; and
WHEREAS, Today, the bravery and willingness of Private First Class
Edward J. Hofem, Jr. to fight for the lives of his fellow human beings,
continues to inspire, and is deserving of the highest honor by all
defenders of freedom; 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, The freedoms and security we cherish as Americans come at a
very high price for those serving in the military in times of conflict;
it is fitting and proper that we who are the beneficiaries of those who
risk their lives, leaving their families behind, express our appreci-
ation and eternal gratitude for their sacrifices and courageous acts;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Private First Class Edward J. Hofem, Jr. 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 tran-
smitted to the family of Private First Class Edward J. Hofem, Jr.