Honor Heroic Police Sergeant

Senate Resolution No. 1231 BY: Senator BONACIC COMMENDING Sergeant Robert Morse in recognition of his heroic actions in rescuing residents from an apartment fire on March 3, 2017 WHEREAS, The quality and sanctity of community life are cherished values worthy of safeguarding, and this Legislative Body is moved to honor those exemplary public servants who devote their lives to preserving and protecting such values; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commend Sergeant Robert Morse in recognition of his heroic actions in rescuing residents from an apartment complex fire; and WHEREAS, In the early morning of Friday, March 3, 2017, residents of the D building at the Emerald Pond Estates in Ellenville, New York, were awakened to the sound of two police officers banging on their door; Sergeant Robert Morse and Ulysses Young then instructed the occupants to evacuate because their building was on fire; and WHEREAS, Sergeant Robert Morse and his partner quickly ran to each unit, where they kicked in doors and entered smoke-filled apartments to rescue residents; even after all the residents were safely out, they bravely went back in to rescue a dog; and WHEREAS, Through Sergeant Robert Morse's quick response and heroic actions, none of the residents were injured; Sergeant Morse and his partner both suffered smoke inhalation and one man had a leg injury; they were treated at Ellenville Regional Hospital and were released; and WHEREAS, This esteemed law enforcement officer should be meritoriously commended for remaining calm under pressure and for showing valor and true courage while performing a lifesaving deed; and WHEREAS, Through his heroic actions, Sergeant Robert Morse demonstrated his character and compassion for the welfare of others, personifying the collective concern of public servants across the community of the State of New York who respond when others are in need of help; and WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those extraordinary individuals 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 Sergeant Robert Morse in recognition of his heroic actions in rescuing residents from an apartment fire on March 3, 2017; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Sergeant Robert Morse.