Honor Navy Hero Francis Brown

Senate Resolution No. 2627 BY: Senator BRESLIN COMMEMORATING the 50th Anniversary of the death of United States Navy Helmsman Quartermaster, Francis Brown on June 8, 2017 WHEREAS, Members of the Armed Services from the State of New York, who have served so valiantly and honorably in wars in which this country's freedom was at stake, as well as in the preservation of peace in peacetime, deserve a special salute from this Legislative Body; and WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to commend those who have served in times of active conflict, as well as those who have served in times of peace; and WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the death of United States Navy Helmsman Quartermaster, Francis Brown, at a Memorial Service on Thursday, June 8,

2017, at Prospect Park in Troy, New York; and WHEREAS, On June 8, 1967, the United States Navy Technical Research Ship, USS Liberty, was attacked without warning in the Mediterranean Sea; and WHEREAS, Serving as Quartermaster, Petty Officer Francis Brown exposed himself to overwhelming rocket and machine gun fire to assume the duties of the ship's Helmsman; he maintained order and saved the lives of many fellow shipmates; and WHEREAS, Petty Officer Francis Brown sustained fatal injuries that day in the line of duty, while remaining at his post upholding the highest tradition of the United States Naval Service; and WHEREAS, For his courageous service, Francis Brown was awarded numerous awards and accolades including The Navy Cross, Purple Heart, The Navy Presidential Unit Citation, The National Defense Service Medal and The Combat Action Ribbon; and WHEREAS, Residents of this great State must never forget the courage with which these men and women served their country, and must recognize that no greater debt is owed than that owed to those who gave their lives for their beloved Nation and to those who continue to be missing in action; and WHEREAS, Having exhibited their patriotism both at home and abroad, these men and women demonstrated their love for their country and merit forevermore, the highest respect of their State and Nation; and WHEREAS, Our Nation's veterans deserve to be recognized, commended and thanked by the people of the State of New York for their service and for their dedication to their communities, their State and their Nation; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the death of United States Navy Helmsman Quartermaster, Francis Brown on June 8, 2017; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the family of Francis Brown.