LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the rekindling of Operation Democ-
racy, spreading the concepts of freedom, peace and democracy through
friendship and education

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to commemorate signif-
icant events which represent turning points in our unique history and
which are indelibly etched in the saga of our great Nation; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commem-
orate the rekindling of Operation Democracy, spreading the concepts of
freedom, peace and democracy through friendship and education; and
WHEREAS, Operation Democracy seeks to carry on the legacy from the
original Operation Democracy from a humanitarian, non-partisan perspec-
tive through culture, education, children and the community of the
hamlet of Locust Valley and the surrounding areas; and
WHEREAS, The original Operation Democracy was conceived in Locust
Valley, New York in 1947, as a grass roots effort to supplement the
Marshall Plan; and
WHEREAS, Underlying this movement, Operation Democracy was an exciting
enterprise, containing all the best elements of human impulse; it was a
spontaneous gesture in response to humanitarian need, as well as a hands
on project, a citizen's grass roots effort from a non-governmental,
non-political perspective; and
WHEREAS, During this time, the citizens of Locust Valley packed and
sent clothes, shoes, books, toys, medical supplies, money, and a myriad
of affection in the form of letters to Sainte Mere Eglise, France, the
first town liberated during the invasion of Normandy; a life-long
connection had been forged, not by confrontation, but by reaching out to
help, and receiving the treasure of gratitude in return; and
WHEREAS, Today, Operation Democracy remains tirelessly dedicated to
carrying on this legacy with the reinstitution of its historic concept,
the belief that peace cannot be achieved by governments alone but must
start in the hearts of people themselves; and
WHEREAS, Remaining true to its mission, this vital organization will
continue to act as an educational, cultural and community events
exchange, working with local schools to educate its students on the
importance of humanitarianism; and
WHEREAS, Resurrecting Operation Democracy is a way of reestablishing,
refueling and propelling once again the strength of the American charac-
ter, and the courage of the American heart; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the rekindling of Operation Democracy, spreading the
concepts of freedom, peace and democracy through friendship and educa-
tion; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Kaye Weninger, President of Operation Democracy.