Senate Resolution No. 3108

BY: Senator YOUNG

COMMENDING Tom and Becky Simsick upon the occasion
of their designation as recipients of a Liberty
Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon an individual
by the New York State Senate

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize the
caring concern and heroic acts of those exemplary citizens, who take
prompt and appropriate action in emergency situations, and in doing so,
help others to avert life-threatening danger; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commend Tom and Becky Simsick upon the occasion of their designation as
recipients 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, Tom and Becky Simsick had just pulled onto the berm near
Marilla Reservoir in Bradford on Sunday, August 13, 2017, when a truck
careened past their parked vehicle in the opposite direction and crashed
into a tree; and

WHEREAS, The accident occurred after the driver of the pickup truck
lost control of his vehicle while traveling west from Bradford, before
striking a tree head-on; and

WHEREAS, Within seconds of the accident and with complete disregard
for their own safety, the Olean, New York couple ran to the wrecked
truck several yards away and pulled the unconscious driver from his
vehicle just minutes before it caught on fire; and

WHEREAS, Tom and Becky Simsick carried the victim of the crash a
safe distance from the fire and immediately called for help; the driver
of the pickup truck was taken to Bradford Medical Center for his
injuries and has since recovered; and

WHEREAS, Through their voluntary commitment to respond as concerned
citizens, and to protect the safety and welfare of their neighbors and
community, Tom and Becky Simsick have unselfishly contributed to the
advancement of that spirit of united purpose and shared concern which is
the cornerstone of community life in this State and Nation; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when an act
of such heroism is brought to our official attention, the same should be
memorialized for the edification and emulation of all; now, therefore,
be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Tom and Becky Simsick upon the occasion of their designation as

recipients 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 Tom and Becky Simsick.