Senate Resolution No. 3493

BY: Senator HELMING

COMMENDING Patrick Rutherford 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 honor Patrick
Rutherford 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 Thursday, November 9, 2017, a vehicle traveling
westbound struck a propane truck from behind as it was parked in front
of a residence on Armington Road; and

WHEREAS, Patrick Rutherford, the propane employee from Farmington,
New York, was filling tanks in the back of the residence when the crash
occurred; and

WHEREAS, Without hesitation or regard for his own safety, Patrick
Rutherford ran to the passenger car, fully engulfed in flames, and
pulled the driver across the street to safety just before the car
exploded, inevitably saving her life; and

WHEREAS, Thanks to the heroic efforts of Patrick Rutherford, the
victim of the crash was treated by the Finger Lakes Ambulance and the
Citizens Hose Company before being airlifted to Strong Hospital where
she remains with her family by her side; and

WHEREAS, Praised for maintaining his composure, Patrick Rutherford
demonstrated his true character and genuine compassion for the
well-being 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; Patrick
Rutherford 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
honor Patrick Rutherford 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 Patrick Rutherford.