LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Korean War Veteran Eugene Pernatt upon
the occasion of his designation as recipient of a Purple Heart Award,
and commending him on his distinguished military service

WHEREAS, Members of the Armed Forces, who have served so valiantly and
honorably in wars in which our Nation's freedom was at stake deserve a
special salute from 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 honor
Korean War Veteran Eugene Pernatt upon the occasion of his designation
as recipient of a Purple Heart Award, and to commend him on his distin-
guished military service; and
WHEREAS, Established in 1782, the Purple Heart is awarded in the name
of the President of the United States to any soldier who, while serving
with the United States Armed Services has been wounded or killed; one of
our nation's most prestigious military honors, it is the oldest award
still given to United States military members; and
WHEREAS, Born in South Buffalo, New York, Eugene "Bob" Pernatt is
being recognized for his valorous actions during the Korean War as part
of the 3rd Infantry Division, one of the most renowned and decorated
combat units during the conflict; and
WHEREAS, On April 19, 1951, Eugene Pernatt was wounded in both legs
when his squad came under attack; and
WHEREAS, A truly valiant soldier, Eugene Pernatt has received numerous
awards for his service, including the National Defense Service Medal,
the Korean Service Medal with two bronze service stars, the United
Nations Service Medal, and the Marksman Badge with Carbine Bar and Rifle
Bar; in addition, he was awarded the Korean War Service Medal from the
Republic of Korea; and
WHEREAS, A loving husband and father, Eugene Pernatt and his wife,
May, raised two sons, Wesley and the late Robert Pernatt; his late son,
Robert, followed in his father's footsteps and served in the U.S. Army
as a captain and airborne paratrooper; and
WHEREAS, The banner of freedom will always wave over this great
Nation, the land of the free and the home of the brave; 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 Korean War Veteran Eugene Pernatt upon the occasion of his desig-
nation as recipient of a Purple Heart Award, and to commend him on his
distinguished military service; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Eugene Pernatt.