Senate Resolution No. 2627

BY: Senator BRESLIN

COMMEMORATING the 50th Anniversary of the death of
United States Navy Helmsman Quartermaster, Francis
Brown on June 8, 2017

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 peacetime, deserve a special salute from this Legislative Body; 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, This Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate the
50th Anniversary of the death of United States Navy Helmsman
Quartermaster, Francis Brown, at a Memorial Service on Thursday, June 8,
2017, at Prospect Park in Troy, New York; and

WHEREAS, On June 8, 1967, the United States Navy Technical Research
Ship, USS Liberty, was attacked without warning in the Mediterranean
Sea; and

WHEREAS, Serving as Quartermaster, Petty Officer Francis Brown
exposed himself to overwhelming rocket and machine gun fire to assume
the duties of the ship's Helmsman; he maintained order and saved the
lives of many fellow shipmates; and

WHEREAS, Petty Officer Francis Brown sustained fatal injuries that
day in the line of duty, while remaining at his post upholding the
highest tradition of the United States Naval Service; and

WHEREAS, For his courageous service, Francis Brown was awarded
numerous awards and accolades including The Navy Cross, Purple Heart,
The Navy Presidential Unit Citation, The National Defense Service Medal
and The Combat Action Ribbon; 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
commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the death of United States Navy
Helmsman Quartermaster, Francis Brown on June 8, 2017; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Francis Brown.