LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION paying tribute to Vietnam War Veteran Walter L.
Cooper as he is honored by the Richmond Hill Historical Society on May
23, 2014

WHEREAS, Members of the United States Armed Forces who served so faith-
fully and courageously in wars in which our Nation's freedom was at
stake, as well as in the preservation of peace during peacetime, deserve
the highest commendation of this Legislative Body; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to pay trib-
ute to Vietnam War Veteran Walter L. Cooper as he is honored by the
Richmond Hill Historical Society; his service and sacrifice will be
recognized on Friday, May 23, 2014, at the event, "A Tribute to Richmond
Hill War Veterans"; and
WHEREAS, The Richmond Hill Historical Society endeavors to preserve
the past and promote the future of Richmond Hill through fostering a
better appreciation, understanding and enjoyment of its historic herit-
age as embodied by its architectural legacy and the contributions of its
past and present residents; and
WHEREAS, "A Tribute to Richmond Hill War Veterans" honors the coura-
geous men and women of Richmond Hill, New York, who took part in a
number of our Nation's 20th and 21st century military conflicts; attend-
ees will have the opportunity to speak with veterans and learn first-
hand about World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, Operation
Desert Storm, and the Gulf Wars; and
WHEREAS, Richmond Hill resident Walter L. Cooper served his country
with honor and distinction as a member of the United States Army during
the Vietnam War; he was raised in Hempstead, New York, and enlisted in
the Army after graduating from college; and
WHEREAS, Walter L. Cooper served from January 5, 1966 to October 31,
1967; discharged from the Valley Forge Army Hospital, this proud soldier
was awarded the Army Commendation Medal with a "V" Cluster for actions
in a combat situation, as well as a Purple Heart for being wounded as a
result of that action; 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, Having exhibited their patriotism both at home and abroad,
these men and women demonstrated their love for their country and merit
forevermore, the highest respect of their State and Nation; and
WHEREAS, Our Nation's 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 pay
tribute to Vietnam War Veteran Walter L. Cooper as he is honored by the
Richmond Hill Historical Society; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Walter L. Cooper.