Senate Resolution No. 1277

BY: Senator BORRELLO

COMMENDING Officer Mark Conklin 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 the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
honor those distinguished officers and citizens who would devote
themselves to public service, demonstrating great courage and diligence
in providing for the care and welfare of the citizens of their
communities and this great Empire State; 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; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to commend Officer
Mark Conklin 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, At 12:16 a.m. on Monday, July 19, 2021, Officer Mark
Conklin of the Jamestown Police Department was on a service call on
Baker Street when he was notified of a possible structure fire up the
road; responding without hesitation, Officer Conklin ran up to the
property as heavy flames were shooting from the porch; and

WHEREAS, In spite of the danger, Officer Mark Conklin entered a side
door and lifted a child, carrying the youngster to safety outside; he
then returned to the side of the property and yelled to at least two
occupants still inside, "Jump, jump, I got you. I got you!"; two adults
leapt into Officer Conklin's arms and were reunited with their four
children who had already escaped the fire; and

WHEREAS, Unfortunately, the two-story home, located behind 116
William Street, was destroyed in the fire; however, due to the astute
and courageous actions of Officer Mark Conklin, all six members of the
family were saved from certain peril and are being assisted by the local
chapter of the American Red Cross; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense 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 Officer Mark Conklin 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 Officer Mark Conklin.