Senate Resolution No. 2873

BY: Senator ORTT

COMMENDING Correction Officer Tommy Brice upon the
occasion of his designation as recipient of a
Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon an
individual by the New York State Senate

WHEREAS, It is incumbent upon the people of the State of New York to
recognize and acknowledge those within our midst who have made
significant contributions to the quality of life therein; and

WHEREAS, From time to time this Legislative Body takes note of
certain extraordinary individuals it wishes to recognize for their
valued contributions to the success and progress of society and publicly
acknowledge their endeavors which have enhanced the basic humanity among
us all; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to commend Correction
Officer Tommy Brice upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of
a Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon an individual by the
New York State Senate; and

WHEREAS, The New York State Senate Liberty Medal was established by
Resolution and is awarded to individuals who have merited special
commendation for exceptional, heroic, or humanitarian acts on behalf of
their fellow New Yorkers; and

WHEREAS, On May 16, 2016, Orleans Correction Officer Tommy Brice,
took decisive action that by all indications saved the life of a 16-year
old girl; and

WHEREAS, Correction Officer Tommy Brice was on his way home from
work when he witnessed a young girl walking down the street with an
older male following closely behind; the girl looked uncomfortable and
attempted to walk faster while trying to get away from the male who was
now in front of her; and

WHEREAS, During this time, Correction Officer Tommy Brice made the
decision to intervene and immediately drove to the scene and asked the
girl if something was wrong; when she began to cry he knew something was
not right and without hesitation called the police; and

WHEREAS, Correction Officer Tommy Brice then followed the male who
went back to his room at a local motel and stayed there until the police
arrived; when the police entered the man's room, he told them it was his
intention to abduct the young girl and four knives lined the bed; and

WHEREAS, Thanks to the quick thinking, training and decisive actions
of Correction Officer Tommy Brice, an innocent young girl was saved; and

WHEREAS, Correction Officer Tommy Brice should be regarded as a true
hero; he has continually devoted himself to public service,
demonstrating great courage and diligence in providing for the care and
welfare of the citizens of this great Empire State; and

WHEREAS, Praised for maintaining his composure and his professional
conduct, Correction Officer Tommy Brice demonstrated his true character
and genuine compassion for the welfare of others; and

WHEREAS, Within every community of the State of New York there are
certain individuals who, by virtue of their commitment and dedication,
command the respect and admiration of their community for their
exemplary contributions and service on behalf of others; Correction
Officer Tommy Brice is one such individual; and

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body that those
dedicated public servants who unselfishly devote their lives to the
preservation of order and the protection of others are worthy and due
full praise for their commitment and noble endeavors; now, therefore, be
it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend Correction Officer Tommy Brice upon the occasion of his
designation as recipient of a Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed
upon an individual by the New York State Senate; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Correction Officer Tommy Brice.