LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Irving Tracy Mason posthumously upon the
occasion of his designation for special recognition by Rensselaer County
at its Honor-A-Deceased-Veteran Ceremony on May 9, 2016

WHEREAS, Members of the Armed Services from the State of New York, who
have served so valiantly and honorably in wars in which this country's
freedom was at stake, as well as in the preservation of peace in peace-
time, deserve a special salute; and
WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to commend those
who have served in times of active conflict, as well as those who have
served in times of peace; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Irving Tracy Mason posthumously upon the occasion of his designation for
special recognition by Rensselaer County at its Honor-A-Deceased-Veteran
Ceremony to be celebrated on Monday, May 9, 2016; and
WHEREAS, Irving Tracy Mason was born on November 17, 1931, in Peters-
burgh, New York, to Irving and Annie Goyer Mason; as a young man, he
attended Berlin Central schools until the 9th grade, and later worked to
help support his family; and
WHEREAS, Irving Tracy Mason enlisted as a member of the United States
Army on Jun 13, 1952, and proudly served his country during the Korean
War as a Heavy Machine Mechanic for two years; and
WHEREAS, Upon separating from the military with the esteemed rank of
Corporal, Irving Tracy Mason moved to the Town of Grafton, and worked
for 25 years as an Operating Engineer for Troy Sand and Gravel until his
retirement; and
WHEREAS, In 1954, Irving Tracy Mason married his wife, Shirley Duval,
and together, they were the proud parents of three children, Kathy,
Debbie and Tracy, and the loving grandparents of numerous grandchildren;
and
WHEREAS, An integral part of his community, Irving Tracy Mason
contributed his time as a volunteer with the Grafton Fire Company for 25
years; he also served as an Assistant Road Superintendent for 13 years,
and Road Superintendent for three years, as well as a Councilman for two
years; and
WHEREAS, In addition, Irving Tracy Mason was an active member of the
Boy Scouts of America, and the Grafton VFW Post No. 6340 where he was
known for selling poppies every year during its annual fundraiser; and
WHEREAS, A dedicated family man, Irving Tracy Mason was an avid hunter
and fisherman who enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchil-
dren; 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
honor Irving Tracy Mason posthumously upon the occasion of his desig-

nation for special recognition by Rensselaer County at its Honor-A-De-
ceased-Veteran Ceremony on May 9, 2016; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the family of Irving Tracy Mason.