Senate Resolution No. 4960

BY: Senator SEPULVEDA

COMMEMORATING the 4th Annual New York Immortal
Regiment March organized by the Russian Youth of
America on May 5, 2018, to observe heroism and honor
the sacrifice of soldiers and citizens in World War
II

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize that
the quality and character of life in the communities across New York
State are reflective of the concerned and dedicated efforts of those
organizations and individuals who would devote themselves to the welfare
of the community and its citizenry; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 4th Annual New York Immortal Regiment March organized by
the Russian Youth of America on May 5, 2018, to observe heroism and
honor the sacrifice of soldiers and citizens in World War II; and

WHEREAS, The Immortal Regiment is an international event held
annually before the Victory in Europe Day; people march with the
portraits of their ancestors who fought in the World War II against the
Nazi Germany and Axis Powers; and

WHEREAS, This significant march, which first started in Russia in
2011, has become an international event; this year marks the 4th Annual
March held in New York State; last year's event consisted of more than
1,000 participants; and

WHEREAS, The victory in the World War II has been achieved through
an immense struggle, personal bravery, sacrifice, and heroism of
millions of soldiers and citizens of diverse nationalities; and

WHEREAS, The victory and the sacrifice of these soldiers prevented
the death and the strife for many more, and stopped the Holocaust; and

WHEREAS, Over 400,000 American citizens died in the World War II;
the Immortal Regiment March helps to commemorate their glory; and

WHEREAS, The Immortal Regiment has a goal to preserve the memory
that Americans, British, Soviets, Chinese and other countries of the
Allied Powers fought together, defeated Nazism and won World War II; and

WHEREAS, It is crucially important to pass on the legacy and the
example of bravery, service, and self-sacrifice of these heroes to the
younger generations, to create a personal connection between the
citizens and their heroic ancestors, and to immortalize their stories;
and

WHEREAS, Better knowledge of the history and the role of those who
participated in World War II against Nazi Germany can lead to more
productive opportunities for future generations; and

WHEREAS, A not-for-profit organization, the mission of Russian Youth
of America is to enrich and preserve the cultural, spiritual and
historical values of Russian heritage, and to create a solid foundation
for its continuity; and

WHEREAS, Russian Youth of America provides young people with an
opportunity to contribute to the Russian community while developing the
skills and abilities they need to become successful adults and engaged
citizens of the United States of America; and

WHEREAS, Russian Youth of America has organized many events in New
York State, such as: Celebration of Victory in World War II, Russian
Santa's Parade, Day of Family, Love and Faithfulness, to name a few;
this vital organization has also been involved in social work, helping
veterans, feeding homeless people, and visiting elderly people in
hospitals; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when
organizations and events of such noble aims and accomplishments are
brought to our attention, they should be celebrated and recognized by
all the citizens of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 4th Annual New York Immortal Regiment March organized by
the Russian Youth of America on May 5, 2018, to observe heroism and
honor the sacrifice of soldiers and citizens in World War II; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of
New York; The Honorable Anatoly I. Antonov, Ambassador of the Russian
Federation to the United States; The Honorable Sergey K. Ovsyannikov,
Consul General of the Russian Federation in New York; and Igor Kochan,
President of Russian Youth of America.